Barcelona were prepared to sell Samuel Umtiti to Arsenal last week, it has been revealed.

Umtiti turned down a January move to Arsenal, electing to stay and fight for his place at Barcelona despite the Catalans being willing to sell the centre-back.

The Gunners were desperate to reinforce their defence during the window as shaky performances and injuries to Skhodran Mustafi and Calum Chambers continued to dent their top-four hopes.

The Frenchman was spotted at the Emirates watching Arsenal's clash with Manchester United during the La Liga winter break, leading to speculation he could be interested in a move to North London.

But even with Barca being open to a sale at the right price Umtiti insisted staying, says Le Parisien.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was himself pushing for the centre-back's signature, but missed out on what would have been a sensational addition.