Arsenal are reportedly tracking Lyon’s midfielder, Houssem Aouar.

In terms of names being linked with Arsenal as we approach the winter transfer window, Houssem Aouar is a new one that only appeared last week.

The 20-year-old French-Algerian midfielder signed a new contract with Lyon in the summer, tying him to the club until 2023 meaning that any move for him will require a decent transfer fee. That could well rule Arsenal out as they look for bargains in this window. With Chelsea also said to be interested, Arsenal’s chances of landing the right-footer would seem slim.

With five goals and four assists in 18 games this season from a central midfield role (with occasional forays on the left), the 5’7” is well on course to beat his goals and assist tally from last season and we haven’t even got out of 2018 (7 goals, 6 assists, 44 appearances).

According to a report that appeared in the media on Monday, Liverpool are also interested in signing Aouar but he has already turned down a move to Anfield once, just before signing his new deal with Lyon.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_UhITHcl3qs

Aouar’s passing ability means that he could be a good Aaron Ramsey replacement and he certainly has some of the hallmarks of a midfielder who could fill that role.