Reports claim Arsenal’s top target is still unchanged ahead of the coming summer transfer window as Mikel Arteta remains keen on Houssem Aouar from French Ligue 1 outfit Lyon.
The North London outfit showed serious interest in the signature of the young playmaker last summer window but failed to secure his services as the French Ligue 1 club insisted on a £54 million release clause which Arsenal could not pay.
Houssem Aouar has always been the top target for the Spanish boss and it is unchanged as long as he is still available in the market for sale.
Lyon general manager Vincent Ponsot had earlier confirmed Arsenal’s interest in the French midfielder but confirmed they were far below the demands of the French club.
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“The third club was Arsenal, who offered below the market value,’ he told L’Equipe.
” We discussed it with the player’s entourage, and together we took the decision to say “no”.’
However, the North London outfit are no longer standing alone in the chase of the 22-year-old as other clubs have indicated interest in his signature. Italian Serie A outfit Juventus are also keen on his signature.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are hoping they will be more ready to land Houssem Aouar as they could part ways with some players to take off the financial burden off their shoulders. Three central defenders – David Luiz, Sokratis and Shkodran Mustafi will be out of contract in the summer and that allows for more space in the team.
The North London outfit failed to sign Houssem Aouar last summer transfer window but ended up with Ghanaian international midfielder Thomas Partey after activating his release clause of £45 million on the deadline day.
Thomas Partey has helped to make the Gunners more solid defensively with commanding presence but there is a need for a creative midfielder like Houssem Aouar in the team.