Houssem Aouar has reportedly decided to battle his way out of Lyon amid growing speculations linking him with a move to Arsenal.
Aouar was nothing short of outstanding last season, helping Lyon reach the Champions League semi-finals. His output of nine goals and ten assists has made him one of the hottest properties this summer.
The 22-year-old midfielder was a driving force for Rudi Garcia’s side last season. Able to change the pace of the game in the blink of an eye, Aouar is widely regarded as the most talented young playmaker in Europe.
The Frenchman has earned a host of admirers for his troubles. Manchester City, Juventus, and Paris Saint-Germain have all taken an interest in Lyon’s prized asset.
However, Arsenal have been the first club to try to strike a deal with Les Gones this summer. As recently confirmed by Lyon sporting director Juninho, the Gunners made an official approach for Aouar.
Desperate to add a top-class midfielder to his depleted midfield line, Mikel Arteta has put the French starlet at the top of his shopping list.
Soon after, Arsenal technical director Edu established contacts with the Ligue 1 side.
According to Juninho, Edu tried to include Matteo Guendouzi as a makeweight in the deal. The proposition fell on Lyon’s deaf ears, nonetheless.
Arteta is looking to sever ties with Guendouzi, who has tumbled down the pecking order in London. After having a falling out last season, the two are mutually exclusive at the Emirates.
However, despite appreciating the Frenchman’s qualities, Lyon are unwilling to get nothing but cash in return for sanctioning Aouar’s transfer.
Arsenal have now received a massive boost to their pursuit of the sought-after playmaker. As per the Metro, Aouar is hell-bent on leaving the Groupama Stadium for a fresh challenge.
Yet, he is contracted to Lyon until 2023. That puts the French powerhouse in a strong bargaining position this summer.
Therefore, all interested clubs will have to shell out around €60 million to convince Jean-Michel Aulas to give the go-ahead.
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