Arsenal are keen to get “full buy-in” from Lyon midfielder Lucas Paqueta “before proceeding” with a formal bid for the player, according to CBS Sports journalist Ben Jacobs.
The reporter claims that both the Gunners and Newcastle are interested in the Brazilian international but they’ve so far stopped short of making an offer due to his asking price:
Contrary to some reports, #NUFC haven’t made an offer either this window. Both clubs feel Lyon’s valuation too high. Lyon say they’ve had offers but no evidence of a formal bid yet from any EPL club. Arsenal more likely to get full buy in from Paqueta before proceeding further.
— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) July 10, 2022
As Jacobs also points out, Lyon are reportedly demanding €65m (£55m) plus add-ons for Paqueta, which is lower than the €80m (£68m) they were asking for during the January transfer window, but it is still seen as excessive.
Arsenal are also seemingly hesitant about entering talks with Lyon before getting approval from the player first, which seems like a good idea after what happened with Raphinha.
Paqueta has also been linked with Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain in the past, so technical director Edu will want to ensure that the 24-year-old doesn’t have his heart set on another club.