Lyon have confirmed that Houssem Aouar will remain at Lyon this season in a hammer blow to Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s transfer plans.
The Ligue 1 club’s outspoken president Jean-Michel Aulas had originally declared that Friday was the cut-off point for the Gunners to strike a deal for the France international midfielder, but reluctantly gave the north London club a further 24 hours to meet Lyon’s valuation.
Earlier this week Aulas claimed Arsenal were struggling to get close to the €50m asking price with Lyon reported to have already turned down two bids.
Similarly, Barcelona had been hopeful of agreeing a deal for Netherlands international winger Memphis Depay, but Ronald Koeman will not now be reunited with the former Manchester United player at Camp Nou.
Both Real Madrid and PSG have been credited with an interest in Aouar, but they are likely to compete for his services next summer when his valuation is likely sky rocket should he star for France at the European championships.
‘I don’t know what information you have,’ Zidane said, speaking about his compatriot. ‘
‘He is a great player, without a doubt, I know, and maybe one day he will be able to play for Madrid, but now there is this squad and we are going to start with this.’
Arteta, meanwhile, will be left hugely frustrated should Lyon refuse to cave having earmarked Aouar as the man he wants to build a new-look midfield around.
When asked about a potential move for Aouar on Fridat, Arteta replied: ‘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.’
