Arsenal’s pursuit of Aouar handed huge boost

Arsenal’s pursuit of Olympique Lyonnais star Houssem Aouar has received a massive boost as the French side lowered their demands for the in-demand midfielder.

Arsenal were hell-bent on signing Aouar last summer, but their bid came nowhere near Lyon’s staggering €60m valuation of their prized asset.

Several other European heavyweights were also interested in signing the French playmaker. But the knock-on effects of the coronavirus crisis crippled the spending capacities of the clubs around the continent.

Since no side was able to match Lyon’s asking price, Aouar ended up staying put at the Groupama Stadium.

However, the 22-year-old has suffered a dip in form this season, clocking up just eight goals and four assists in 33 appearances in all competitions.

As a result, Les Gones are now willing to accept a significantly lower transfer fee to green-light Aouar’s departure. As per French outlet L’Equipe, the Ligue 1 giants will sanction the midfielder’s move if they receive an offer in the range of €25m – €30m.

Mikel Arteta is still keen on adding the France international to his attacking ranks following Arsenal’s utterly disappointing season.

The Spaniard opted to go all-out for Atletico Madrid’s Thomas Partey after being priced out of a deal for the Frenchman.

Even though the 27-year-old enjoyed a decent maiden season at the Emirates, Arteta has become aware his side lack creativity on the back of Mesut Ozil’s departure.

Aouar is a similar type of player, and his recent price correction could see the Gunners reignite their interest when the transfer window reopens for business.

Known for his impressive ball control, unparalleled vision, and pinpoint passing, the Frenchman ticks all the boxes for the type of playmaker Arteta wants to recruit in the summer.