Houssem Aouar makes transfer decision amid Arsenal interest as another Chelsea star is targeted
ll the latest Arsenal news, views and transfer rumours as the Gunners look set to miss out on one of their top summer targets with Houssem Aouar set for Lyon stay
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Aouar makes decision over future amid Arsenal interest
Lyon midfielder Houssem Aouar has informed his teammates that he will stay at the club despite interest from Arsenal.
The 22-year-old was the subject of a rejected bid from the Gunners, and the expectation was that another offer would be made before Monday’s deadline.
But RMC Sport claims Aouar had a meeting with the Lyon hierarchy on Saturday, after which he told his fellow players of his intention to stay put.
The Ligue 1 club had also set a deadline of Friday for Arsenal to complete a deal for Aouar. That has now passed and Lyon are no longer willing to negotiate.
Arsenal to turn attention towards Chelsea player
Arsenal will try to sign Jorginho from Chelsea after failing in their attempt to bring in Aouar, according to ESPN.
The Gunners are searching for a new midfielder before the close of the transfer window on Monday.
They have also been linked with a move for Atletico Madrid’s Thomas Partey, but that would mean having to meet the Ghanaian’s £45 million buyout clause.
Jorginho is considered a more affordable option, though the 28-year-old is attracting attention from Paris Saint-Germain.
Arsenal fans react to Partey latest
Arsenal fans have taken to Twitter to celebrate what they believe is the imminent arrival of Thomas Partey.
The 27-year-old could still be subject to a late bid from Arsenal as they search for an alternative to Aouar.
And Gunners fans, having seen Partey named in Atletico Madrid’s starting XI against Villarreal, are clearly of the view that he is playing his last game for the club.
“I think it's a crucial moment because it defines the people, the players, the balance, and the quality that you're going to have for the rest of the season,” Arteta said in Friday’s press conference.
“We need to make some decisions in the next three days, everything has been delayed so much, it's not only us but every team because of the context that we have at the moment, but we will try to make the best possible decisions.
“Whatever we have, we go for it fully convinced and prepared to have a good season.”
