Southampton have already lost their three best players after reluctantly parting ways with club captain Adam Lallana, striker Rickie Lambert and left-back Luke Shaw. The latter joined Manchester United whereas Lallana and Lambert will link up together at Anfield next season.

There is also interest in defender Dejan Lovren, who was their key player in defence last season. The Gunners are hoping to replace Vermaelen, who could possibly join Manchester United, with the 24-year-old Croatian.

However, Southampton are in no mood to let any more of their star players leave, according to the Express. They have already pocketed a cool £60 million from the sale of top players and are in no pressure to sell.

Arsenal will likely have to look elsewhere as a bid for Lovren seems like a dead end.