Olivier Giroud has seen his options of a return to France cut short with Marseille pulling out of the race to sign him.
The France international has been linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium after struggling to secure a regular place in Arsene Wenger's starting line-up last season.
He started on the bench for Arsenal's Community Shield victory over Chelsea - but it was his penalty that sealed the shootout win.
But with the arrival of compatriot Alexandre Lacazette at Arsenal this summer in a big-money transfer from Lyon, it is likely to further damage Giroud's hopes of securing more game time this term.
Everton are understood to be keen - but Marseille boss Rudi Garcia has officially given up hope of signing the Arsenal striker.
Compatriot Alexandre Lacazette arrived at Arsenal this summer in a big-money transfer from Lyon, a move which is likely to further damage Giroud's hopes of securing more game time this term.
But Garcia has admitted defeat in his pursuit of the 30-year-old.
"I do not think he wants to come to Marseille, Olivier Giroud. That's the problem," Garcia told French sports daily L'Equipe .
"It is understandable - as he is a striker with the French national team who is making progress with Arsenal - that when he does change clubs, his interests might lie beyond OM."