Manchester United scouted Alexandre Lacazette but decided the striker who became Arsenal’s £52.7m signing was not to the standard required by José Mourinho.
The manager ordered the club’s French scouting operation to assess the 26-year-old, with Mourinho taking note of a goalscoring record that stands at 129 goals in 275 games for Lyon.
However, it is understood Mourinho was informed of doubts regarding Lacazette’s suitability for the Premier League, his physical attributes and big-game mentality.
Lacazette, who has played 13 times for France, joined Arsenal this month and is expected to start the season as Arsène Wenger’s first-choice No9.