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

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

The Gunners manager Mikel Arteta wanted to bring Rogers to the Emirates Stadium club and spoke with him.

The Arsenal boss had identified him as the solution to his side’s issues on the left wing as the North Londoners prepare for next season.

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 for a couple of months that 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.

Aston 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 left Villa unhappy.

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 going forward.

Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola is an option for the Gunners, and the French club could demand more than £117m for his services.

PSG believe he is worth more than the £116m Manchester City are paying for Elliot Anderson.