Arsenal's talks over signing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang have reportedly stalled due to Borussia Dortmund's desire to source a replacement before any deal is concluded.
Gunners CEO Ivan Gazidis and head of recruitment Sven Mislintat - formerly of Dortmund - have flown to Germany in an attempt to thrash out a deal for the wantaway 28-year-old striker.
However, initial discussions have proved unsuccessful, with Arsenal seeing a bid of £43m rejected as Dortmund refuse to lower their £53m asking price.
The Daily Mail reports that Dortmund want to complete the signing of a replacement for Aubameyang before they agree to sell the Gabon international, whose disciplinary problems have raised questions over his future at the Bundesliga club.
Out-of-favour Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud is understood to be one of the players under consideration by Dortmund, although they want to sign the Frenchman in a separate deal rather than as part of the Aubameyang transfer.
The Gunners were reportedly considering offering Giroud on loan until the end of the season, in addition to Dortmund's £53m asking price, but the Bundesliga club are driving a hard bargain.
Wenger confirmed in his press conference today that Arsenal "are not close" to reaching an agreement, despite reports that both clubs are hopeful of completing the deal within the next 24 hours.
Barney Corkhill
