Ousmane Dembele has told Barcelona that he wants to stay at the club despite interest from Arsenal, according to Mundo Deportivo.

What's the word?

Unai Emery has brought in a handful of new players, but they are lacking a marquee signing.

Arsene Wenger's successor has strengthened the defence and midfield, but he could do with a centre-back and winger before today's 5pm deadline.

Dembele emerged a few weeks ago as a target, but according to Mundo Deportivo, the 21-year-old has told Barcelona's hierarchy that he wants to fight for his place at the Camp Nou.

The France international had a disappointing debut season at Barca following his move from Borussia Dortmund, which cost close to £100m.

Injury and lack of form restricted the winger to 17 La Liga appearances, in which he scored three goals and created seven assists.

Should Arsenal end their pursuit?

With only a matter of hours to go before the window shuts, the Gunners would have to pull something huge out of the back to secure Dembele's signature.

If the North London outfit want a permanent deal, they would arguably have to fork out a world-record figure.

Judging by these latest reports in Spain, the attack-minded star has no intention of leaving the Catalan giants.

Arsenal should not waste time trying to recruit a player that has no real desire to move to the Emirates.

Given that the transfer window closes at 5pm, perhaps Emery should focus on more attainable targets.

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