After announcing yet another profitable year, Arsenal are now surrounded by transfer news that targets several young players. The Gunners have been linked to Mario Gotze, Sebastian Rode and numerous others who are currently playing for clubs in foreign leagues. The latest transfer rumor involves Lyon’s Maxime Gonalons, one of French footballs’ rising stars. The midfielder has been monitored for months and could well be one of Wenger’s likely targets for this summer. The 23 year old has had a consistent season and seems to be growing with each match according to reports.

Arsenal’s interest in him is no longer a secret since scouts have been watching his games from the stands recently. They have been present for Lyon’s last three matches and it was clear they were there for Gonalons. Some rumors even say that the Gunners’ chief talent spotter, Steve Rowley, will have the job of following Lyon’s midfielder every two weeks until the end of the season, which likely means Wenger is keen to bring in the French international.

From the players’ recent statements it looks like he is keen on moving to the Premier League. Even though he is 23, he has been with Lyon since 1999 and the moment for a change is approaching. Gonalons said that English and German football are his first choices when thinking of a transfer and that the level of skill and professionalism seen it both those leagues is simply amazing. It is more than obvious that his days with Lyon are numbered and that he will most definitely advance to a stronger championship.

Even though Arsenal seem eager to sign the French international, no formal steps have been taken. Some say that the Gunners have not yet pursed Gonalons because of Wenger’s relationship with Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas. They are not the best of friends and that might be an important factor in determining if Lyon’s 23 year old midfielder will end up at the Emirates or not.

Arsenal may have a better chance of getting the French international’s signature when you consider Lyon are apparently looking to do some serious cutbacks to their wage bill. A figure of £12 million seems to be the kind of fee which will need to be paid to secure Gonalons’ services for next year’s Premier League season. Watch this space to see if Arsenal add this Frenchman to their squad. Without a doubt this is going to be a very interesting summer at the Emirates…