Transfer Rumour Rater: Corinthians Reject Arsenal's Bid for Alexandre Pato

Brazilian club Corinthians have reportedly rejected Arsenal's £6.5 million bid for striker Alexandre Pato, according to the Daily Star's David Wright.

The former AC Milan forward joined childhood club Corinthians in January in an attempt to secure a place in Brazil's World Cup squad. He has since scored nine goals in 29 league appearances—not a great return—and has reportedly fallen out of favour with manager Tite Carvalho and fans and could be looking to make a clean break.

According to Wright, the Gunners made an early bid for the pacy forward in the hope of adding firepower to their paper-thin attack but have been rebuffed on their opening bid.

Wright reports that "Arsenal have had a £6.5million offer for Brazilian forward Alexandre Pato rejected by Corinthians, who has also attracted Tottenham. ... The Gunners have attempted to beat Spurs to Pato's services in time for the January window."

Wantaway striker Nicklas Bendtner looks set to finally end his nine-year spell at the club, which will leave Arsene Wenger even shorter further upfield.