Arsenal did not make a formal approach for Norwich City attacking midfielder Emi Buendia during the January transfer window, according to the Canaries’ sporting director Stuart Webber.

Numerous reports had linked the Argentinian playmaker with a move to the Emirates but Webber poured scorn on the rumours, saying the only player in their squad who was the subject of interest was right-back Max Aarons:

“When things are actually happening it is not on some 12-year-old’s social media account. When it is, it is rubbish. When this 12-year-old says he has definitely seen Arteta at Buendia’s house, I’m not sure you should believe him. The only interest was in Max. No other players. That was ironic as it was the only one that didn’t get out in the press. I spoke to him about that.”

Webber’s comments don’t necessarily mean rumours of Arsenal’s interest in Buendia were untrue, though. It is usually the case these days that club’s make enquiries with agents first before moving forward with a formal offer.

It’s likely that the Gunners were informed of the 24-year-old’s asking price, which was reportedly £40m, before moving on to other options. The London club eventually signed Martin Odegaard on loan from Real Madrid for the rest of the season.

It remains to be seen if Buendia will be the subject of a formal bid from Arsenal in the summer.