Arsenal in Houssem Aouar Transfer Tussle

Who Else is Interested?

As per RMC Sport, previous contact between Paris Saint-Germain and Lyon over Aouar is set to be rekindled in the coming weeks in a bid to thrash out a new deal to lure the midfielder to the capital.

Lyon’s president, Jean-Michel Aulas, and PSG’s, Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, discussed the potential of a deal only for COVID-19’s impact to halt proceedings; the idea being that talks would restart at the end of the 2020/21 season.

Keen admirers of his profile and the desire to add French players to meet UEFA criteria have made him a top target, with even PSG midfielder Ander Herrera speaking recently about his adoration for the 22-year-old.

It’s added, which could play into Arsenal’s favour, that Aouar has always wanted to ply his trade outside of France once his time with Lyon comes to an end. Born in the city and having played there since 2009, trying his hand at a different division was seen as the natural next step. However, he’s said to be proud of interest from the reigning Ligue 1 champions.

Who wouldn’t be?

In terms of finance, no side can match PSG’s pulling power. Arsenal are known to dish out excessive wages, but there is no comparison. Nonetheless, it was frequently mentioned over the summer that Aouar does not adhere to the stereotypical footballer personality, instead much less money-driven and a quieter, more reserved character.