Exclusive: LFC talks break down with agent of French attacker; Arsenal in talks over personal terms

Lille are willing to let Jonathan Ikone leave the club this summer for £40million or thereabouts but he won't be moving to Anfield after talks with his agent broke down last week.

Anfield Central reported that a meeting was set with his agent for last week and we have now been told that Liverpool have broken off contact with Ikone.

We are told that unreasonable financial demands were the cause as the Ligue 1 champion is demanding over £150,000/week and a massive signing on bonus.

They also wanted assurances that he would start for Liverpool and given the quality in the Reds' attack and midfield that is not something that Jurgen Klopp could offer the Bondy-born playmaker.

Our source cannot say how much the Reds are willing to offer but given that Diogo Jota earns around £90,000/week, it's likely in that range.

Arsenal are also understood to be in contact with Ikone and his agent and although we have no information on what they can offer him, it's likely to end in the same way given the Gunners' financial situation.

Liverpool are looking for a versatile attacker this summer and while Ikone fits the bill being able to play as an attacking midfielder as well as on both wings, he is no longer a target for the Reds as they explore other options.