Lyon midfielder Houssem Aouar says he is not disappointed about missing out on a summer move to Arsenal.
Arsenal had tabled an offer of around £35m pounds for the creative lad but it was rejected. It was reported that they increased the offer but the French club who had slapped a £55.5m price tag on the 22-year-old rejected them as well.
Arsenal eventually went to sign Thomas Partey from Athletico Madrid in a €50million (£45m) deal on deadline day after Aouar confirmed his stay at the club.
Houssem Aouar impressed on France debut
Aouar made his senior debut for France in the 7-1 thrashing of Ukraine on Wednesday showing an impressive display.
Speaking after the game on the summer link to the North London club, he said he is happy to remain at Lyon.
“Of course I asked myself all the necessary questions. I am in the headspace to have a great season with my club and get back the points that we have lost.
“So of course, we are going to try to do the best season and to try to put the team and the club back in its rightful place, at the top of France.
“Disappointed? I am the opposite. I am at home, in the club that I love, with my friends and my family.”
He further stated that his next goal is top bring the club back to where it belongs. Lyon had finished outside Europe after the 2019/2020 Ligue 1 season was concluded on a match per point basis due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
‘So certainly I have all my bearings and it is giving me even more motivation to have a good season and to bring the club back into the top places in France.’
Having got Partey, Aouar still remains a top target for Mikel Arteta. It won’t be surprising if the Gunners make a fresh bid to sign him next summer.
Thomas Partey sends a message to Arsenal fans
Meanwhile, Arsenal’s new signing, Partey has expressed appreciation to Arsenal fans for welcoming to the club.
Partey, who is currently on international duty with Ghana so will link up with his new team-mates afterward.
The midfielder took to his social media page to send a message to the Arsenal supporters ahead of his debut season in England.
