Arsenal wanted to sign Chelsea striker?

Arsenal explored the possibility of signing Chelsea striker Joao Pedro earlier this summer, according to BBC journalist Sami Mokbel.

The Gunners had a productive summer transfer window with five permanent signings, but they made just one acquisition to bolster their attack.

The club pursued a marquee forward throughout the window but ultimately made only one forward signing in the form of Christos Tzolis.

Mokbel now reveals that Pedro was one of the top targets for the Gunners over the summer, but a deal was never likely on the cards.

Chelsea made it clear the Brazilian was not for sale at any price and handed him a new long-term contract last month to firm their stance.

The former Watford man has extended his deal until June 2034, and it looks unlikely that Arsenal will succeed in signing him in the near future.

Arsenal are likely to push for a marquee forward signing in January after their failure to land one during the recent transfer window.