Arsenal and Lyon have opened talks over the potential transfer of Lucas Paqueta, with the Gunners expected to submit a bid.

Lyon's Brazilian midfielder Lucas Paqueta celebrates during the French L1 football match between Olympique Lyonnais (OL) and OGC Nice at The Groupama Stadium in Decines-Charpieu, central-eastern France on February 12, 2022. (Photo by OLIVIER CHASSIGNOLE / AFP)
Lyon’s Brazilian midfielder Lucas Paqueta celebrates during the French L1 football match between Olympique Lyonnais (OL) and OGC Nice at The Groupama Stadium in Decines-Charpieu, central-eastern France on February 12, 2022. (Photo by OLIVIER CHASSIGNOLE / AFP)

UOL Esporte report that Arsenal appear to be the main candidate for the potential transfer of Lucas Paqueta this summer, with talks already taking place between the Gunners and Lyon.

The two clubs are in no rush at the moment, with little competition for the signature and plenty of time remaining in the transfer window.

Lyon want at least €60m (£50.6m), whilst Arsenal are working to reduce that figure or to pay part of it in bonuses.

Charles Watts of Goal reports on his YouTube channel that Paqueta’s camp believe Arsenal are set to make their opening bid for the player.

Watts suggests the midfielder could potentially fit in as the left-sided number eight in a 4-3-3.

Goal in Brazil report that Arsenal are indeed interested in Paqueta this summer, and technical director Edu Gaspar has informed the player’s camp that they want to formalise an offer in the current window.

Paqueta has a contract until 2025, so Lyon are in a strong position. But Arsenal’s cause might be helped by the player’s stance on a transfer.

Globo Esporte report that the 24-year-old hopes to make a step forward in his career and is considering leaving Lyon. A departure would certainly give his wages a boost, after he took a cut to leave Milan for France.

Lyons Brazilian midfielder Lucas Paqueta (L) fights for the ball with Lille's Portuguese defender Jose Fonte (R) during the French L1 football match between Olympique Lyonnais (OL) and Lille (Losc) at The Groupama Stadium in Decines-Charpieu, central-eastern France on February 27, 2022. (Photo by OLIVIER CHASSIGNOLE / AFP via Getty Images)
Lyons Brazilian midfielder Lucas Paqueta (L) fights for the ball with Lille’s Portuguese defender Jose Fonte (R) during the French L1 football match between Olympique Lyonnais (OL) and Lille (Losc) at The Groupama Stadium in Decines-Charpieu, central-eastern France on February 27, 2022. (Photo by OLIVIER CHASSIGNOLE / AFP via Getty Images)

Mostly playing in midfield for Lyon, Paqueta scored 11 goals and provided seven assists last campaign.

Arsenal already have Martin Odegaard and new signing Fabio Vieira for the right-sided number eight role, but Paqueta could fill in on the other side and perhaps even rotate with the other two when appropriate.