Andrea Berta has suffered his first rejection since becoming Arsenal’s sporting director.
Berta has received glowing feedback from Arsenal fans this summer, handing Mikel Arteta six signings to bolster the squad.
The Italian’s work in the summer window is not over as the Gunners continue to be linked to players, including Eberechi Eze.
Though the attack is what fans want to see improved before the window closes, it’s been reported that a defender has caught Arteta and Berta’s eye.
Jeremy Jacquet rejects Arsenal transfer
Arsenal showed interest in Jeremy Jacquet of Stade Rennais, with the 20-year-old showing great potential in France.
The news came after it was reported that Jakub Kiwior could leave Arsenal this summer, seeing Jacquet arise as a possible option to replenish in central defence.
While the youngster’s talent is exciting, Arsenal fans had reservations about Jacquet due to how many defenders Arteta has signed since becoming manager.
For the fans who were against the transfer, there is good news, as Jacquet has reportedly rejected the chance to sign for the Gunners.
That’s the understanding of Foot Mercato, who claim that the Rennes star ‘has declined the Gunners’ approach’ in favour of staying at his boyhood club.
It’s reported that despite Arsenal’s desire to ‘recruit a new promising talent’ at the back, Jacquet ‘preferred to decline’.
The defender went as far as to discuss a new contract with Rennes to avoid any further approaches this summer, with his mind solely on getting more first-team experience.
Refreshing stance from Jacquet
Given the injuries that ‘complete’ Jacquet has had to overcome to become a player capable of playing in the French top-flight, it makes sense for the 2005-born defender to take his time on his road to being a senior regular.
The Frenchman has only made 12 senior appearances for Rennes, with a move to the Premier League, where game time is not promised, perhaps coming too early for the rising star.
Still, it’s a blow for Arsenal, who clearly admire the player, but the Gunners will have plenty of other options up their sleeves to fill the profile wanted by Arteta and Berta.
Berta got a quick answer from Jacquet, allowing both the player and the two clubs involved to move on promptly.
from Arsenal Transfer News | Rumours, Deals & Targets | Arsenal Insider
Rosie Tudball