As you may have heard, Crystal Palace are interested in signing Houssem Aouar despite his agreement with Nottingham Forest.
The France international is said to have agreed a five-year contract with the Premier League newcomers, although they are yet to meet Lyon’s €15m (£13m) valuation – so far, Nottingham Forest have only offered €10m (£8m).
Arsenal are also said to be interested, but if it does come down to a straight race between Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest, we believe the south Londoners hold one key advantage.
What’s the story?
Well, earlier this year, John Textor purchased 2/3 of Lyon after spending $846m (£700m) on the French giants.
The American now has a controlling stake in Lyon, replacing Jean-Michel Aulas as majority shareholder.
Interestingly, Textor is also a co-owner of Crystal Palace, alongside Steve Parish, Josh Harris and David Blitzer.
Therefore, if his colleagues at Selhurst Park really are keen to sign Aouar, then the 56-year-old can surely pull some strings.
You may argue that Textor would prefer to keep the £62,000-a-week man in Lyon, seeing as he’s one of their best players, although Crystal Palace’s interest may actually help Textor financially.
As things stand, Lyon risk losing Aouar for free in 2023 as he has already entered the final 12 months of his contract, so the south Londoners could represent a way to help the Ligue 1 side make some money from the 24-year-old’s situation.
Crystal Palace or Nottingham Forest could get a bargain
Whatever happens, we’re surprised that nobody has already snapped Aouar up for just £13m.
The France international was one of the most coveted midfielders in Europe not too long ago, with Arsenal in particular trying very hard to sign him in 2020 – the Gunners saw a £35m bid rejected by Aulas.
For whatever reason, Aouar is yet to earn a big move as a result of his efforts, which include one goal and nine assists in 15 Champions League appearances.
If Crystal Palace or Nottingham Forest can sign him for a fee in the region of just £13m, it could end up being the signing of the summer.
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