Arsene Wenger has downplayed reports of Arsenal's interest in reaching a deal for Mario Balotelli.

Wenger met with the 23-year-old's agent, Mino Raiola, while working as a pundit in Brazil, though any deal could cost Arsenal €44 million [£35m].

Raiola was quoted recently on the possibility of a move to the Emirates Stadium too, with the agent declaring: "Arsenal are a fantastic club.

"Only eight or 10 clubs in the world can afford Mario Balotelli - like all premium players, and he is one of the greatest.

"[Will the move happen?] Anything is possible."

When questioned on a move for Balotelli by beIN Sports, he said: "No. No, that's pure invention.

"We cannot believe absolutely everything that is on internet or is in newspapers.

"Sometimes it's created by agents or by press who need news. But in this case, it's not true."

Arsenal surely needs to acquire a forward with just Oliver Giroud, Joel Campbell and Yaya Sanogo up front.