Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas specifically brought up Arsenal when answering a question about whether Houssem Aouar could stay.

Speaking to the French media this week, Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas brought up Arsenal in a conversation about midfielder Houssem Aouar.

The interviewer asked Aulas whether it’s possible Aouar will stay at Lyon this summer. Rather than answering generally, the club president made specific reference to Arsenal.

“Financially, Arsenal are like everyone else (in a tricky spot),” Aulas told Le Progres (via GFFN). “And Houssem could say to himself that the best thing would be to stay with us.”

Perhaps Aulas is trying to push Arsenal to make their next move. According to L’Equipe, Lyon haven’t heard from the Gunners since their initial enquiry involving a possible swap deal for Matteo Guendouzi. The French club had no interest in that deal.

Aulas generally goes public the very moment he has something to say about a transfer. We heard from him throughout the entirety of the summer of Alexandre Lacazette’s arrival, often denying the existence of any bids for the striker. So he’s not a reliable source.

But the fact he’s still talking about the Aouar-to-Arsenal move suggests he’s expecting another offer. At the very least, Arsenal clearly haven’t told him they’re not going to make one.