Arsenal 'failed with late bid for defender Kostas Manolas'

Arsenal tried and failed to bring in Kostas Manolas from Roma in the closing stages of the January transfer window, according to a report.

The Gunners are said to have turned to the Greece international after having a separate 'derisory' offer for West Bromwich Albion's Jonny Evans knocked back, rumoured to be in the region of £12m.

Sky Sport Italia suggests that Arsenal's desperate search for central defensive cover saw them make contact with Roma on deadline day, but they were turned away by the Serie A side.

Roma were reportedly unwilling to sanction Manolas's departure due to the late nature of the enquiry, giving them little time to seek a replacement.

The same report suggests that Arsenal could return with a formal bid in the summer, however, while Juventus may also revive their interest in the 26-year-old.