Houssem Aouar is set to remain at Lyon, confirmed by reports.
Arsenal have missed out on their midfield target Houssem Aouar, who is reportedly set for Lyon stay. Earlier, Lyon President Jean-Michel Aulas had set a deadline on Friday for the suitors – Juventus, PSG and Arsenal – to make a move for Aouar alongside skipper Memphis – who has been chased by Barcelona. However, Les Gones have now declared that the duo will remain with the club for the entire season.
Arsenal had been touted as the likely destination for Aouar, with Mikel Arteta himself keen to get the deal over the line. However, the North Londoners have failed with the offers, which never met the demands of the Ligue 1 club. Thomas Partey is another target for the Gunners, but Atletico Madrid are keen on their 45m pounds valuation for the midfielder.
Nonetheless, Arteta said anything could happen before the deadline day.
“We need to make some decisions in the next three days. Everything has been delayed so much, not only for us but every team,” he said.
“We will try to make the best possible decisions and at the end, whatever we have, we go for it fully convinced and prepared to have a good season.”
Jorginho, who had been previously linked with exit links, looks to have found his foothold in the current Chelsea squad, captaining the team for the first two games this season. Furthermore, the Italian midfielder was instrumental behind the Blues’ win against Crystal Palace as he scored two penalties.
However, Arteta has stated that Gunners can pull out a few signings before the deadline day of the transfer window.
“Well, I am very confident in what we are trying to do internally. [I am getting] clarity and support from everybody at the club to try and improve the team if we can.
“But most importantly as well, to get the right balance in the squad, for now, and the way we want to evolve the squad in the future. We are all very much aligned but I’m afraid that I cannot give you any updates or news.
“I think it is a crucial moment because in the end it defines the people, the players, the balance and the quality that you’re going to have for the rest of the season.”
Meanwhile, Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira is reportedly closing on a move to Atletico Madrid.
