Lyon are unlikely to be interested in Matteo Guendouzi if Arsenal do offer the Frenchman in a part-exchange deal to sign Houssem Aouar, according to journalist Jonathan Johnson.

The reporter, who specialises on Ligue One, claims it’s almost certain that the Gunners would have to come up with a straight cash offer if they want to sign the France Under 21 international this summer:

“Guendouzi isn’t an obvious fit for Lyon. From what I understand, Lyon aren’t particularly interested in the potential offer of a part-exchange [of Aouar-Guendouzi] with Arsenal.”

Aouar’s asking price is reportedly €50m (£45m) and, while it is clear that Arsenal would have an advantage with technical director Edu knowing his counterpart Juninho personally, it appears the move could be scuppered by the lack of transfer funds.

Manchester City, Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain are also believed to be interested in Aouar, although no club has made a formal bid for the 22-year-old yet.

With Lyon having failed to qualify for Europe next season, this summer would be the perfect time to sign some of their stars for lower prices but it seems clear that the Gunners would have to sell players in order to finance a move for Aouar.