According to Santi Aouna, Crystal Palace could now sign Arsenal target Houssem Aouar after Nottingham Forest withdrew their interest.
What’s the story?
Well, the Premier League newcomers had actually agreed personal terms over a five-year contract with the France international, before Vincent Ponsot – Director of Football at Lyon – upset them.
Aouna – writing for Foot Mercato – believes Nottingham Forest abandoned their pursuit of Aouar as Lyon continued to move the goalposts over a fee.
Their demands are said to have “evolved” when Nottingham Forest returned with an improved offer.
Steve Cooper has since agreed a £45m deal to sign Morgan Gibbs-White from Wolves.
Now, Aouna believes Crystal Palace could take advantage.
It is said that Patrick Vieira is now “rubbing his hands” after Nottingham Forest decided not to sign Aouar, with the south Londoners “very interested” in the 24-year-old.
Foot Mercato add that the next few days are set to be hectic.
Arsenal are not mentioned in Aouna’s story, although it was recently said that the Gunners were in pole position to sign Aouar this summer – the north Londoners bid £35m for the Lyon No.8 in 2021.
Arsenal must challenge Crystal Palace
If Arsenal allow Crystal Palace to sign Aouar without challenging them for his signature, we will be baffled.
The Frenchman is available for just €15m (£13m) with his contract expiring in less than 12 months, and at the age of just 24, he is yet to hit his peak as a footballer.
Add in the fact that Aouar boasts Champions League experience, and is also a senior international for France, the chance to sign him for just £13m is too good for Mikel Arteta and Edu to refuse.
Even if he doesn’t become a superstar at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal would surely still make a profit on Aouar given the low fee demanded by Lyon.
Keep an eye on this situation – as Foot Mercato state, the next few days promise to be hectic.
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