Report: Arsenal close to Houssem Aouar transfer

The Houssem Aouar transfer to Arsenal appears to be getting closer. Reports from multiple outlets today had the Gunners submitting a formal, written bid of €35M to Lyon. It’s the first official bid Arsenal have made, although Edu reportedly spoke to his counterpart and countryman Juninho at Lyon about a cash plus Matteo Guendouzi move that was rejected out of hand.

Depending on where you look, Aouar would either like to move to Arsenal and has already agreed to personal terms, would accept a move to Arsenal but would prefer Juventus, or is not interested in Arsenal at all. Such is the nature of the transfer rumor beast. That Arsenal made an official offer today seems settled, and my guess is that even if Arsenal isn’t Aouar’s first choice destination, he wouldn’t block the move.

It’s unlikely that the final deal will be for that €35M number. Aouar will end up costing more than that, perhaps €10-15M more, but Lyon is reportedly open to payments in installments so the Gunners may not have to front all the entire sum. Apparently, a move for Aouar doesn’t rule out a move for Thomas Partey as well — it’s not one or the other according to reports.

My gut is telling me that this deal is going to happen before the transfer window closes on October 5th. It would be a great move for the Gunners and would fill a massive hole in the lineup. Bottom line on Aouar to Arsenal: cautious optimism.