Arsenal have been dealt a blow in their pursuit of Lyon’s Houssen Aouar after the midfielder confirmed that he will remain at the club for the remainder of the season.
The France international was left out of the Ligue 1 side’s squad last weekend with reports claiming the player refused to take part in an exercise following the game against Angers.
In an interview with RMC Sport, the midfielder claimed that he is content with life in Lyon, which he stated in response to rumours that he was unhappy.
I would be lying if I said I wasn’t sad over the claims from the Frenchman. He could well have proven to be the best possible signing in the January transfer window with his balance of attacking and defensive qualities bringing a lot to the squad.
In the French top-flight, the central midfielder has already scored two goals and set-up another in just eight outings, despite switching between the number 10 and 8 roles. That’s more goal contributions than any of Arsenal’s midfielders combined have managed to get this season.
However, as mentioned above, it’s his mix between attacking and defending which made him the subject of a bid from the Reds last summer. Whilst he averaged 1.8 shots and 2.6 dribbles per game last year, the £45m-rated ace also managed to perform 1.1 tackles.
His creativity would be the most useful asset to Mikel Arteta, which makes his comments on his future even more of a shame. Aouar would’ve been a sensational signing, however, the Gunners must have alternative transfer targets in mind for the winter window after suffering disappointment.
In other news, a talkSPORT presenter has lent his support to Mikel Arteta following Sunday’s defeat.