Barcelona defender Samuel Umtiti has turned down an offer from Arsenal this week.

Le Parisian says Gunners boss Mikel Arteta made direct contact with the France international about a move to London before tonight's transfer deadline. Arsenal were keen to take Umtiti on-loan and Barca were willing to do business.

However, Umtiti has politely rejected the approach.

The centre-half wants to stay with Barca and fight for his place. The Frenchman has lost his first-choice status this season with Clement Lenglet now regarded as Gerard Pique's No1 centre-half partner.

For their part, Barca's board are keen to sell, but Umtiti is digging in his heels.