Club failed in attempt to sign Arsenal star on loan this week, would have been a major loss for Arteta

Arsenal almost lost one of their star players this week after a club failed in an attempt to sign him on loan.

The transfer window still remains open in some countries, including Turkey, whose deadline was extended to 5 March following the fatal earthquake that hit the country last month.

It has led to clubs scrambling to secure players in time for the rest of the season and one player targeted by Galatasaray was Arsenal midfielder Emile Smith Rowe.

The side wanted to improve their attacking options in a bid to push for the league title this season but it appears the Gunners were not willing to let go of their player.

According to Turkish outlet FotoMac, Galatasaray were confident of landing Smith Rowe on loan due to his lack of game time at the Emirates.

However, the Englishman appeared in Arsenal's dramatic 3-2 victory over Bournemouth on Saturday, all but ruling out any late move abroad.

He would have been a major loss for Arteta

Arsenal fans can breathe a sigh of relief now that Smith Rowe looks to be staying at the club as he can be a real help to their Premier League title push.

The 22-year-old has only made seven league appearances for Arsenal this season, primarily as a result of injury.

Despite this, if Smith Rowe had left it would have represented a major loss for the Spanish manager, who has carefully reintroduced the midfielder to the first team.

He has a lot of experience for his age, having already made 90 appearances for his boyhood club.

With a huge run in ahead of them and the Europa League still to play for the club need strength in depth and a move to Turkey wouldn't have been helpful.

It makes more sense for Arsenal to wait until the summer to assess Smith Rowe's future when they have an opportunity to sign a replacement if he does go out on loan.