Arsenal have Riyad Mahrez bid rejected

Arsenal are reported to have failed with an initial offer for Leicester City star Riyad Mahrez. The Algerian was a key player for the Foxes last term as they lifted an unprecedented and historic league title.

The Foxes are adamant that the 25-year-old is not for sale despite strong interest from the North London giants.

According to French source L'Equipe, the Gunners had come up with a secret £30m offer for the attacker, which was swiftly rebuffed by the English champions.

A renewed bid is likely to be made in the coming days with the Gunners ready to test the Foxes' resolve before the transfer deadline - August 31.

Arsenal were earlier in the hunt for striker Jamie Vardy before Claudio Ranieri's team convinced him to pen a fresh four-year extension at the King Power Stadium.