The XI Arsene Wenger 'nearly' signed for Arsenal

Arsenal have been struggling for trophies of late. It’s been 12 years since the North London side last won the Premier League and their presence in the Champions League seems to be just to make up the numbers.

It has been another frustrating transfer market for Arsenal fans with Wenger missing out first on Jamie Vardy and most recently, Alexander Lacazette. These are the latest in a long list of players Arsenal have missed out on signing in the last few seasons under Wenger.

Here is a list of 11 superstars who came close to signing for Arsenal: (Formation: 3-4-3)

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Goalkeeper

Gianluigi Buffon  

Arsenal were close to signing Buffon before and during his time at Juventus

The Italian legend was linked with Arsenal before and during his time at Juventus. A deal never materialised though and Arsenal were left with Manuel Almunia. Buffon met with Wenger back in 1998, but a concrete offer was never made and he decided to stay at Parma until 2001.

Buffon then moved to Juventus making 566 appearances and is considered one of the best goalkeepers of all time.