Barcelona centre-back Samuel Umtiti reportedly rejected the chance to move to Arsenal this month despite a personal approach from Gunners boss Mikel Arteta.

The 26-year-old is thought to have topped Arteta's wishlist as he looked for options to improve his backline after a poor first half of the season.

According to Le Parisien, Umtiti rejected the deal - despite his limited game time this season - as he 'believes he is already at the best club in Europe'.

Following the rejection Arsenal went on to sign Flamengo's Spanish defender Pablo Mari on loan for the remainder of the campaign.

Arsenal are expected to return with a fresh offer for the Frenchman in the summer.