Fulham forward Clint Dempsey could have put Arsenal on red alert by revealing that he has an ambition to compete in the Champions League.

The 29-year-old USA international has been the subject of transfer gossip in recent months, with both the Gunners and Liverpool reportedly keen on the playmaker.

"[Fulham] offered a contract, and I just wanted to focus on my football and finish off the season strongly," Dempsey told Sports Illustrated.

"I've always said I'm grateful for everything Fulham has done for me. Some of the best memories I have in soccer have been there. But the fact remains that I want to play in Champions League. I want to play at the highest level possible. I want to do as much as I can in my career and look back and say I made the most of all the opportunities I've had.

"I'm always going to want to play in Champions League. It's something I've never done. I'd like to test myself at that level. That way I can look back and say, 'Hey, I gave it a go. Either I was good enough or I wasn't good enough.'"

Dempsey netted 17 goals for the Cottagers this season.