Tottenham advances spur Arsenal into action with midfielder bid tabled
Reports in France claim Arsenal have submitted a bid for Lyon midfielder Houssem Aouar as they look to beat off competition from north London rivals Tottenham.
The Gunners have long been admirers of the France international and made a bid to take him to the Emirates last summer. That was unsuccessful and they opted to up their offer for the versatile schemer. However, it did not impressive Lyon chiefs who called the proposal ‘timid’.
The trail then went cold until the season had ended, with the capital outfit then reigniting their interest. And it was said that they were hopeful of getting the talented playmaker at a knockdown price.
It remains to be seen if that is the case but French outlet Le10 Sport (via The Daily Mail) state that an offer has been made. They add that talks are ‘progressing well’ between the relevant parties.
The news comes a couple of weeks after it emerged that Spurs were also keen on the man with one France cap. Managing director Fabio Paratici looked set to trump Spurs’ north London rivals.
But the Emirates money men have responded by launching their third assault. The ball is now in Lyon’s court over whether they want to cash in on their star man.
He has scored 32 times from 170 outings in all competitions for Les Gones and also chips in with assists.
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Aouar defends training absence – again
The Lyon-born ace is no stranger to controversy and was in trouble with club bosses last November after allegedly refusing to train. He was also forced to deny rumours that transfer speculation had affected his performances for the French club.
And on Tuesday he released a statement denying that he skipped training once again to try and force a move.
“Once again, unfortunately another fake news was published across social media,” the statement read. “I don’t usually answer what’s been said about me… I was sick and hospitalised over the weekend.
“I am doing much better now and I am ready for what comes next. Thank you to those who have always supported me, in the good as well as in the mad moments. Go OL!”
Aouar is not the only midfielder that the Gunners have their eyes on. It was reported on Tuesday that they have made a formal bid for Sassuolo schemer Giovanni Carnevali.
There is no question that Mikel Arteta needs to freshen up his midfielder and they are keen on the Italy international. There is also interest from Juventus but the Premier League outfit have looked to act first.
READ MORE: Agent of 35-goal striker claims boyhood Arsenal fan keen on move
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