Arsenal attempt to sign Aouar rebuffed by Lyon

Arsenal have reportedly seen their first bid to sign Houssem Aouar comfortably knocked back by Olympique Lyonnais.

Arsenal sent a player-plus-cash offer for Aouar earlier this week, but Lyon refused to accept Matteo Guendouzi as a counterpart in the deal.

According to football.london, the Ligue 1 giants very much appreciate Guendouzi’s qualities, but they prefer a straight cash deal.

Aouar has a host of admirers across Europe, with Manchester City and Juventus also credited with an interest in the skillful 22-year-old playmaker.

Despite his young age, the French starlet possesses all required attributes to fit into Mikel Arteta’s plans for Arsenal’s long-term future.

Known for his composure with the ball at his feet, tactical intelligence, and pinpoint passing, Aouar ticks all the boxes for a type of player the Spaniard is crying out for his depleted midfield.

Aouar, as well as several other Lyon’s top players, has been heavily linked with a departure from the Groupama Stadium following the club’s failed attempt to secure a top-three finish in Ligue 1.

However, Rudi Garcia’s men remain in contention for the Champions League crown, as they take on Manchester City in the semi-finals on Saturday night.

Having already overcome Juventus in the round of 16, Les Gones are hopeful that another miracle against City may bring them a step away from achieving what would be a massive success.

Lifting the Champions League crown is the only thing that can inject much-needed money into Lyon’s pockets and save them from losing numerous first-team stars in the summer.