Report: Arsenal lead race to sign Lyon midfielder Aouar

Houssem Aouar could soon become the focal point of Mikel Arteta's midfield.

Arsenal have identified the Lyon midfielder as their top transfer target and are considered the favorites to sign him, but the Gunners lack the funds to match a €60-million valuation, sources told Julien Laurens of ESPN FC.

No other club has shown a legitimate interest in signing Aouar. Manchester City and Juventus were reportedly linked to him, but both teams are now focused on strengthening other areas of their respective squads.

The France Under-21 international is reportedly viewed by Arteta as the perfect candidate to carry the load in the midfield of his ideal 4-3-3 formation. Meanwhile, Aouar is eager to leave Lyon, according to Laurens.

However, Arsenal may have to resort to selling players to raise the funds to complete a deal with the French club. Alexandre Lacazette could be one of the players Arsenal ships out before the transfer window closes on Oct. 5.

Lacazette is reportedly eager to speak with club officials to determine his role for the 2020-21 season. Arsenal could let the French forward leave for £40 million, Laurens reports.

Arsenal unsuccessfully attempted to complete a move for Aouar earlier this summer by including outcast Matteo Guendouzi as part of the deal, but Lyon said he didn't fit the style of player they're looking for.

Aouar, who started for Lyon in their Champions League semifinal loss to Bayern Munich, had three goals and three assists in 25 Ligue 1 appearances last season.