ARSENAL reportedly failed with a late £26million move for ex-Man City star Ferran Torres.
Barcelona boss Xavi Hernandez is believed to have overruled his board’s decision to let the attacker leave.
El Nacional claims Torres was the subject of a shock bid from Arsenal at the end of the summer transfer window.
Mikel Arteta was on the hunt for another versatile forward to boost his attacking options.
And he targeted Torres after the Spain international dropped down Barca’s pecking order.
Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha and Ousmane Dembele have started the season as Xavi’s preferred trio.
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Meanwhile, Memphis Depay and Ansu Fati are also pushing for minutes.
And Arsenal received encouragement to move for Torres from those behind the scenes at the Nou Camp.
However, Xavi stepped in to ensure Torres was not sold last-minute.
The tactician had already lost striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to Chelsea.
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And he was not prepared to lose Torres just six months after his £47.5m switch from Man City.
Had the winger joined Arsenal for £26m, it would have seen Barca record a huge loss.
Torres scored seven goals in 26 games and Xavi had been impressed with his impact.
But with money tight in the Catalan capital, Arsenal felt confident to test the waters with an offer.
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The Gunners ended making no late signings.
And Arteta may be wondering if he should have pursued other avenues after suffering a 3-1 defeat to Manchester United at the weekend.
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