Arteta warns fans Arsenal project will 'take some time'
Arsenal have reportedly been offered the chance to sign Houssem Aouar, less than a year after they had two bids rejected by Lyon. Technical director Edu and Mikel Arteta were hot in pursuit of the French midfielder last summer, tabling around £31.2million plus Matteo Guendouzi but the approach was rebuffed.
After it soon became clear Arsenal were not willing to meet Lyon's £45m valuation, the Gunners moved on and instead signed Thomas Partey after triggering his £45m release clause.
Things haven't worked out for the Ghanaian in north London though and while he has struggled, his former side Atletico Madrid edged Real Madrid and Barcelona to the La Liga title.
Arsenal have also signed Albert Sambi Lokonga from Anderlecht this summer but there is still room for another central midfield player.
Arteta is not entirely sure whether the club's summer transfer business is done just yet.
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Tottenham have also been approached but Spurs are said to have told Lyon that Aouar is not a priority for them.
Arsenal's bitter rivals have also been linked with moves for Weston McKennie of Juventus and AC Milan's Franck Kessie.
Speaking after the 6-0 win on the road at West Brom in the Carabao Cup last night, Arteta was coy in whether Arsenal will sign any more players.
"I don’t know what will happen still a few days to go, we had some exits planned, so we will see [what happens]," he said.
Both Mikel Arteta and Nuno Espirito Santo have been offered Houssem Aouar (Image: GETTY)
Sead Kolasninac and Willian are among those who could depart the Emirates.
Talks are ongoing with Fenerbahce over the sale of the Bosnian full-back.
Meanwhile, Corinthians are edging closer to a deal for Willian that is likely to be a free transfer.
The Brazilian has already received Arsenal's blessing that he can leave the club just one year after joining on a free transfer from Chelsea.