Sevilla pull out of deal to sign ex-Arsenal midfielder as medical tests reveal concern

Former Arsenal midfielder Jeff Reine-Adelaide looked set to sign for Sevilla this January but the Spanish side have now pulled out of the deal, according to reports.

L'Equipe report (via Get French Football News), that the Lyon player has not failed his medical, but Sevilla's medical staff have detected a lack of pace during the tests, forcing them to withdraw from the loan deal.

The 25-year-old had recently recovered from a knee injury, and is said to have needed another few weeks to get back up to full match fitness.

But clearly that was a risk that relegation threatened Sevilla were unwilling to take, with the club only able to register one more player before the transfer deadline slams shut.

The Frenchman has 14 appearances for Lyon, but hasn't started a match since last August.

Reine-Adelaide blames himself for Arsenal frustration

Reine-Adelaide joined arrived at Arsenal's academy from Lens at the age of 18. Despite being one of Arsene Wenger's picks for the future, it didn't work out for him in North London.

The attacking-midfielder did make eight first team FA Cup appearances, but he departed two years later for Ligue 1 side Angers, without single Premier League minute under his belt. He was later signed by Lyon, before going on loan to Nice.

Speaking in 2020, the attacking midfielder opened up on his time at Arsenal, stating that he blamed himself for not making it at the Emirates.

"There were several circumstances. When I had the opportunity to get playing time, I achieved good and bad performances," he told Lyon Capitale.

"So it’s my fault, I must admit because I wasn’t always good. However, I didn’t really have a chance. I played for the cup matches, with players who didn’t know each other very well… It was complicated.

"Afterwards, you must never cry over your fate; you must raise your head."

Wenger's praise for Reine-Adelaine

Reine-Adelaide was initially signed by Wenger, who discussed his ability in 2016, claiming that "he has it all."

Speaking before Arsenal's 2-0 win over Reading in the EFL Cup at the Emirates, the former Gunners boss stated: "My belief is that Jeff is ready to play because he has it all in his locker – the strength, the physical power, the technical level.

"He has to add efficiency to his game – that will come with games as well – but he will have an opportunity to show that I am right about him.

"And part of a career is to grab your opportunity when you get it. So for Jeff, tonight could be an important night, but I am confident he will do well."