Goal in Brazil report that Arsenal are indeed interested in Lucas Paqueta this summer, and technical director Edu Gaspar has informed the player’s camp that they want to formalise an offer in the current window.
The Gunners are yet to submit a bid, and the Brazilian international won’t come cheap.
Exactly how much Paqueta will cost is unclear. Goal claim Arsenal might have to pay as much as €80m (£67.7m), but Ben Jacobs of CBS Sports reports that the price is likely to be closer to €65m (£55m) this summer.
Jacobs and Goal agree that Newcastle United haven’t made a bid this summer, despite their own interest in the player.
Paqueta has a contract until 2025, so Lyon are in a strong position. But Arsenal’s cause might be helped by the player’s stance on a transfer.
Globo Esporte report that the 24-year-old hopes to make a step forward in his career and is considering leaving Lyon. A departure would certainly give his wages a boost, after he took a cut to leave Milan for France.
Media Foot initially reported last week that Arsenal were interested in Paqueta.
Fabrizio Romano then added that Paqueta’s camp had denied any negotiations so far, but the player would love to play in the Premier League, and Lyon could sell.
Mostly playing in midfield for Lyon, Paqueta scored 11 goals and provided seven assists last campaign.
Arsenal are obviously in need of some goals from midfield, though they did make to address that issue with the signing of Fabio Vieira.
