On Friday morning it was reported that Lyon president Jean-Michael Aulas had confirmed an Arsenal offer for Alexandre Lacazette but quickly issued a denial.
- Aulas was alleged to have said he had a “nice offer from Arsenal”
- The quote was widely reported
- However, Aulas did not say anything about an Arsenal offer
It was widely reported that the Lyon president said he had a “nice offer from Arsenal” for Alexandre Lacazette.
"We have a very nice offer from Arsenal for Alexandre Lacazette."
– Lyon President, Jean-Michel Aulas [@GFFN] pic.twitter.com/aN7P4zcR3Q
— ArsenalFanTV (@ArsenalFanTV) June 16, 2017
The origin of the quote is unknown, but it quickly spread across various media outlets, including Sky Sports.
However, new quotes emerged later on which contradicted the original quote.
Aulas continued: “It didn't work out with Atletico. Today, I don’t have any other offers (for Lacazette). I don’t know if he wants to leave”
— Matt Spiro (@mattspiro) June 16, 2017
It appears as if that first quote from Aulas was false.
This doesn’t mean that there hasn’t been a bid from Arsenal, as it’s possible that Aulas is playing hardball over the transfer. Nor does it mean that Arsenal aren’t interested, as they could simply be planning a bid for a later date.
However, it’s clear that transfer is far from completion and that Arsenal are negotiating with a very stubborn and savvy chairman.
Aulas was reportedly in London this week to discuss the deal with Arsenal.
One possibility that has been reported this week is Olivier Giroud being used as a make-weight in the deal, as the Frenchman could look to leave Arsenal. Lyon happen to be one of the interested clubs, according to reports.
It’s more likely that Lyon will want straight-up cash for Lacazette.
That being said, Aulas is now saying Lacazette is going nowhere despite the player saying he wanted to leave and Lyon saying they’d let him.
Fun, huh?