The summer transfer window is now in full swing as Arsenal continue to look to add to their squad ahead of the opening game of the upcoming season.
The Gunners now know that they will face newly-promoted Fulham at Craven Cottage in the first game of the 2020/21 campaign.
Mikel Arteta is working hard in order to add to the squad ahead of that game, with one new face already through the door, and another seemingly close to joining.
Willian signed on a free transfer earlier in the month, after his contract expired at Chelsea, while Arsenal are leading the race for Lille defender Gabriel Magalhaes, having agreed a fee with the Ligue 1 team.
Another name who has been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium in recent days is Lyon midfielder Houssem Aouar.
The 22-year-old has caught the eye in Lyon’s run to the Champions League semi-final this season, prompting Arsenal to make their move.
According to L’Equipe, Arsenal have made a player plus cash offer for the midfielder this summer with Matteo Guendouzi included in the deal.
It is however claimed that Lyon are holding out for a fee of around £54 million this summer.
There also remains interest from around Europe, with Juventus said to be keeping an eye on the situation, but the Gunners could have one main advantage in the race for the player.
The Gunners technical director, Edu, is leading the discussions with Lyon, and is in contact with Sporting director Juninho.
The two club’s chiefs will already know each other, having played together at international level for Brazil in the early 2000s.
That personal relationship between the two could just play into Arsenal’s hands and put them one step ahead of their rivals.
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