Lyon general manager Vincent Ponsont hs confirmed that the impact of the global health crisis may force them to sell some of their stars at a discounted price in future transfer windows.

Arsenal made a move for Houssem Aouar in the summer but Ponsont says the Gunners’ offer was “below the market value” but if they continue to be hit financially, they could have no choice but to sell some of their key players:

“The economic situation is catastrophic for the football world. We are significantly impacted. On the market, there were two phases: reducing the number of players, which we did very well, and a second part concerning the players who could potentially leave. Finally, we could have transferred some of them, with a discount on the price. But even with the Covid impact, we decided to postpone.”

It was reported that Lyon were originally holding out for €50m (£45m) for Aouar and although Ponsot suggests this could be reduced, it remains to be seen whether Arsenal would have the necessary funds for a move in January.

They shelled out a sizeable sum on Thomas Partey so it would suggest that the London club would have to sell some squad players in order to make up any shortfall in their transfer budget. It will be interesting to see whether they do make a move for Aouar in the New Year.