Arsenal could have wrapped up a deal for Morgan Rogers weeks ago for approximately £100 million | OneFootball

Arsenal could have wrapped up a deal for Morgan Rogers weeks ago for approximately £100 million had they not dragged their feet, according to the Times.

Manager Mikel Arteta wanted to bring Rogers to the Emirates Stadium and spoke with him. The Arsenal boss had identified him as the solution to his side’s issues on the left wing.

However, Rogers has signed a six-year contract at Chelsea after they completed a £117m deal.

The Blues only renewed their long-standing interest in the England international last week, having believed he was destined to join the Gunners.

Arsenal held talks to sign Rogers last summer, but their sporting director Andrea Berta felt around £65m could get him.

Villa wanted much more at the time and demanded £120m from suitors this summer, based on the value of other transfers completed.

Chelsea were willing to meet their demands during direct negotiations with the Midlands club and have got their man.

The Gunners were trying to hold informal talks through intermediaries, an approach which angered Villa.

Arsenal will now look elsewhere and are willing to spend big on a top player this summer.

However, his asking price must fit their valuation, and fans will hope they make the right decision.

Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola is an option for the Gunners. They could demand more than £117m for him.