Arsene Wenger is always on the lookout for young talents, and has set his eyes on Lyon midfielder Clement Grenier, who has impressed the manager with his intelligent style of play, which reminds him of a former signing Samir Nasri.
Grenier started his career at FC Annonay in 1997 as a youngster, and his talent was soon recognized by Lyon, who signed him on a youth contract in 2002. The 22-year old spent 7 years till 2009 in the youth academy, before he was rewarded with a senior contract with the club. The midfielder snatched the opportunity to play for the elite club, and ever since, has played 67 times for the French club, scoring 6 goals.
The Arsenal target has also progressed well on the international scene, having begun his France career at the age of 16, when he was picked for the French Under-16 side. As he progressed in the Lyon academy, he was chosen for the Under-17, Under-18, Under-19, Under 20 and Under-21 side, establishing himself as a potential senior player for France.
The youngster has seen off interest from clubs like Chelsea, Real Madrid and Inter Milan before he signed his first senior contract for Lyon. But a few years down the line, interest from Wenger, who has nurtured several French players into world-class athletes, could tempt the player to make the switch across the channel to England.
Arsenal have always been strong in the midfield, and even now, are equipped with players like Santi Cazorla, Mikel Arteta and Jack Wilshere. However, with frequent injuries to Wilshere, Ramsey and Emmanuel Frimpong, Wenger may look to sign a squad player who can perform at the highest level.
According to DailyMail, Wenger has admitted to have been following the player’s progress, and would be interested in signing him when the opportunity presents itself. Arsenal scouts have reportedly been spotted during Grenier’s recent performances.
Wenger said, “We are following him. His intelligence of play pleases me. He has interesting qualities. He reminds me of Nasri.”
It will be interesting to see whether other clubs do compete with Arsenal, and whether Lyon would be willing to sell a player who they have developed over the past decade.