Arsenal are hoping to add a creative midfielder to their ranks before the end of the transfer window and could reignite their interest in Lyon playmaker Houssem Aouar.
The Gunners were heavily linked with the French midfielder last summer but could not get a deal across the line. According to the Sun, Aouar is now pushing for a move to the north London club as he wants to test his skills in the Premier League.
The 23-year-old shot into prominence with his displays for Lyon the past few years. While his performance dropped off last season, he still managed seven goals and three assists in 30 league games and powered them to a fourth-place finish in Ligue 1.
After failing to land Aouar last summer, Arsenal have shifted their focus to other targets. Among them is Leicester City‘s James Maddison, who is set to cost the Gunners £80 million. While Arsenal have proposed a player + cash deal for the England playmaker, Leicester are unwilling to budge on their valuation.
Thus, Arsenal could be tempted to turn back to Aouar. The Frenchman’s contract expires in 2023 and he will be a much cheaper alternative to Maddison at around £30 million.
Should Arsenal make a move for Houssem Aouar?
Arsenal’s lack of creative options in midfield is well-documented. Last season, they scored only 55 goals, the second-fewest among teams in the top half of the Premier League table. That could be attributed to the lack of service provided to the likes of Alexandre Lacazette, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Nicolas Pepe.
Thus, they need to add a player with flair and creativity if they are to challenge for a Champions League spot this season, and Houssem Aouar fits the bill.
Aouar is a technically gifted midfielder who can unlock defences with his wide range of passing. He is a good dribbler and can beat the press and advance the ball up the field quickly. Last season, he averaged 1.5 dribbles, 1.3 key passes and 2.3 shots per game. He also completed 86% of his attempted passes.
He is capable of playing in central midfield or just behind the striker as a No. 10. At Arsenal, he could feature in a midfield three alongside Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka or Emile Smith Rowe.
Given the fact that he costs less than half of James Maddison, it would be wise for Arsenal to prioritise a move for the Frenchman.
Stats via Whoscored
