Lyon playmaker and Arsenal target Houssem Aouar has put to rest any potential rumours of upset by reiterating his happiness at Lyon. 

Aouar was the subject of intense speculation this summer, as Arsenal had two bids rejected for the 22-year-old in their attempts to bring him to North London. But, speaking to Telefoot today, Aouar has declared his commitment to the club where he has played his football since the age of 11. “I spoke a lot with Juninho… He shows me his confidence every day: it’s a real pleasure to work with him. To stay here for another season, or more, with him, it’s a great pride.”

The news will come as a blow to Arsenal fans, with reports throughout the summer variously claiming that the player had agreed terms with the club and was ready to move, or that high agent fees scuppered the deal financially. With Aouar publicly declaring his happiness, and Arsenal’s wage and transfer budgets sure to be depleted after finalising the deal for Thomas Partey on deadline day, Mikel Arteta’s hopes of getting his man in January or next summer now look slim. 

Aouar’s contract runs out at the end of the season, and with Real Madrid listed among his potential suitors, time will tell whether Arsenal and their board will be able to get their man before someone else does.

Photo credit: Steffen Prößdorf