Laliga giants Real Madrid are the latest team to register their interest in Arsenal target Houssem Aouar with reports in France that Zinedine Zidane has recently held talks with the midfielder.
Arsenal have been in pursuit of the 22-year-old, but are yet to offer up Lyon’s £46 million asking price.
Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is in the market for a central midfielder to bolster his options in the middle of the park, with Aouar and Thomas Partey his top targets.
Several teams including Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain are said to be keen on the playmaker, and according to L’Equipe, Madrid are the latest to have joined the race for his signature.
The report states Zidane recently spoke with Aouar, who is said to view the idea of moving to the Bernabeu and linking up with the French boss as a ‘dream’.
Madrid’s finances have taken a hit due to the Covid-19 pandemic, meaning the deal would likely be an initial loan with an obligation to buy next summer.
Lyon are believed to be open to that idea, as long as they get the amount they are asking for in the end.
Arsenal have brought in Willian on a free transfer from Chelsea and central defender Gabriel Magalhaes.
And when asked about a potential move for Aouar, Arteta said: “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.”
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