Arsenal dealt a blow in race for new striker

Arsenal have been dealt a blow in their push to sign Luka Jovic from Real Madrid, with the young Serb set to stay at the Bernabeu. 

Jovic joined Los Blancos last summer from Eintracht Frankfurt on the back of an impressive season for the Bundesliga side. 

However, Jovic has since struggled to match expectations in Spain, netting just two goals from his 15 league appearances. 

The 22-year-old has since been heavily linked with a move away from the LaLiga giants, with Arsenal believed to be leading the race for the striker. 

Any deal for Jovic now appears to be dead in the water after Real Madrid confirmed their intentions to retain the youngster's services. 

"Luka is at the perfect age to grow as a footballer and as a person, he signed a contract until 2025 and we are counting on him," Real Madrid told AS in a statement. 

"He did nothing without the knowledge of Real Madrid and the local police of his country was informed of his arrival. 

"The first year is not easy for anyone because of his adaptation to a new country, language and culture, but we know its potential and nobody doubts its possibilities here." 

Jovic has completed just one league match following his move to Real Madrid last summer, that coming in their 2-0 home win over Osasuna in September.