Arsenal are edging closer to completing a deal for Lyon forward Alexandre Lacazette, according to reports.

Lyon’s club president Jean-Michel Aulas travelled to London this week for talks with the Gunners over a proposed deal for their prolific forward. A possible swap deal involving Olivier Giroud was also discussed during the meeting, if newspapers are to be believed.

Adviser Gerrard Houllier, Arsene Wenger’s close friend, was with Aulas in London.

Lyon are resigned to the fact that Lacazette is almost certainly set to depart this summer, but are keen to earn as much money as they can for the 26-year-old.

A proposed move to join La Liga side Atlético Madrid broke down when their transfer ban was upheld, meaning a Premier League switch seems to be on the cards. Arsenal were initially dealt a blow by the Frenchman’s comments when he said he’d like to play in the Champions League, however he has since revised his thoughts and admitted participation amongst Europe’s elite is not a dealbreaker.

Lacazette was also quoted as saying: “In making my choice, I will look at my position. If there are not too many players, so I won’t be benched and will be able to play. The Premier League is interesting, that does not mean I will go and that does not mean I will refuse to go.”

In keeping his cards close to his chest, Lacazette’s future is uncertain and Lyon are set to profit from this.

Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool have also been linked with an approach recently and if the Gunners table a £60m bid, this could help to speed up negotiations between both clubs.