Thomas Lemar to Arsenal: Gunners now odds-on to sign Monaco star after third £45m bid

Lemar has been heavily linked with a move to Arsenal in recent weeks, with the Gunners said to have had two bids turned down by Monaco already.

French outlet L’Equipe reported today that Arsenal ave returned with a third bid worth £44.7million to bring him to the Emirates.

And bookmakers Betfair have responded by pricing Arsenal as 1/2 favourites to sign Lemar before the summer transfer window shuts.

Lamar was key in helping Monaco to the Ligue 1 title and Champions League semi-finals last season, scoring 14 goals and providing 17 assists across all competitions.

And the France international is at odds of 6/4 to stay put for Monaco’s title defence next season.

Arsene Wenger is admittedly keen on adding Lemar to his ranks, but Monaco vice-president Vadim Vasilyev said earlier this week that the Gunners boss is wasting his time pursuing the 21-year-old.

He said: "We have kept all of the key players that we intended to keep.

"And I will address speculation relating to Lemar - he is staying with us. He is an immense talent and is essential for the team."

Monaco were desperate to keep hold of their title-winning squad this summer but have lost a host of stars to the Premier League.

Winger Bernado Silva and left-back Benjamin Mendy both joined Manchester City, while Tiemoue Bakayoko moved to English champions Chelsea.