Leicester's Riyad Mahrez tipped to be replaced by Tom Lawrence
Arsenal are attempting to sign Mahrez after the Leicester star handed in a transfer request back in May.
The Algeria international took centre stage as the Foxes won the Premier League title last year, scoring 18 goals from 39 appearances.
However, his form dipped drastically last season in a turbulent campaign that saw Claudio Ranieri axed and replaced by Craig Shakespeare.
Mahrez managed to find the net just 10 times and is now determined to leave the King Power Stadium for one of the Premier League elite.
Leicester star Riyad Mahrez wants to join Arsenal
Roma are interested in snapping him up with the Serie A side determined to end their wait for a first Scudetto since 2001.
However, The Sun claim Mahrez will reject Roma because he wants to play for Arsenal instead.
The 26-year-old supposedly has his heart set on a move to north London and is even willing to bide his time to ensure the move goes through.
Arsenal want Monaco's Thomas Lemar but, with the Ligue 1 giants standing firm, Mahrez knows they could be forced to sign him instead.
Their need to sign a winger may even heighten if Alexis Sanchez leaves for Manchester City or Bayern Munich.
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Leicester star Riyad Mahrez wants to join Arsenal
GETTY
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger could be forced to sign Riyad Mahrez from Leicester
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Speaking on Friday, Shakespeare confirmed Roma had lodged a bid for Leicester's star asset.
“I think I was quoted as saying on the last press day there had been no bids," he said.
“There has been a bid from Roma. I was told afterwards so I want to put the record straight.
“It was politely declined on the basis it was a low offer."