Arsenal launch bid for Houssem Aouar with talks progressing well with Lyon

Arsenal have made their move again to sign Houssem Aouar this summer by launching a transfer offer to Lyon, according to reports.

The Gunners were in hot pursuit of the French playmaker last summer but after having a number of bids turned down and being told they must spend £45million for his services, they opted to sign Thomas Partey instead.

But according to French publication Le10Sport, Arsenal have now submitted another bid to Lyon in order to finally get their man with talks between the two clubs believed to be progressing well.

The amount Arsenal have offered has not yet been disclosed but the Gunners will be hoping to finally secure a cut-price deal this summer.

And it has been reported that Lyon are hoping for between just €20million (£17m) and €25m (£21m) for Aouar.

With the Gunners' transfer budget restricted this summer after missing out on European football altogether last term, they will certainly be boosted by Lyon's valuation of their playmaker.

However, they are set to face competition from other clubs in Europe for Aouar - whose Lyon contract expires in the summer of 2023.

PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi is reported to be a big fan of the 23-year-old while Atletico Madrid have made enquiries for Aouar too.

But Arsenal's offer may tempt Lyon, who are looking to raise vital funds before recruiting this summer.

Arsenal's reported bid came just moments after Aouar was forced to strongly deny 'fake news' reports that he skipped Lyon's first day of pre-season training to force through a summer transfer.

After the reports emerged, Aouar in fact revealed that he has actually been in hospital with an illness.

He said: 'Once again, unfortunately another fake news was published across social media.

'I don't usually answer what's been said about me… I was sick and hospitalised over the weekend. I am doing much better now and I am ready for what comes next.

'Thank you to those who have always supported me, in the good as well as in the mad moments. Go OL!'