Salomon Kalou claims he turned down a move to Arsenal from Lille in January

Salomon Kalou: Claims he turned down Arsenal in January

As revealed by Sky Sports during the January transfer window, Arsene Wenger was keen to bring Kalou to the Emirates Stadium to bolster his attacking options, but a move failed to materialise.

Former Chelsea man Kalou, who left Stamford Bridge for Lille in 2012, says he rejected the chance to move to Arsenal as he wanted to help Lille enjoy a successful end to the season.

"A possible departure? Yes, to Arsenal," Kalou told L'Equipe.

"A loan deal could have been done at the last minute.

"However, I want to finish third [in Ligue 1], prepare for the World Cup and go to the Stade de France to compete in the Coupe de France final."