Arsenal add Aouar teammate to transfer shortlist as ‘priority objective’

Arsenal have added Lyon starlet Rayan Cherki to their list of transfer targets, according to reports.

The Gunners had a successful summer 2020 transfer window, bringing in the likes of Thomas Partey and Gabriel Magalhaes. But they are already turning their attention to future targets.

According to Todo Fichajes, they are now contenders for the signature of Cherki. The Spanish outlet claims Arsenal have opened talks for the attacking midfielder.

Cherki is only 17 years old, but is already making an impression in the Lyon first team. He played 13 games in all competitions last season, scoring three goals in the Coupe de France.

His potential has already put several top clubs on alert. Manchester United have been linked with the teenager in recent months.

Now, Todo Fichajes claim Arsenal have joined the race. Having considered a bid for Cherki in the summer window, they are now ready to press ahead with their interest.

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Arsenal were not sure Cherki was old enough to make an impact if they signed him in the summer, but now their opinion has changed. As the French youth international continues to impress, he has now become a “priority objective” at the Emirates Stadium.

Therefore, Arsenal have made contact with Lyon to make their intentions known. The report says they could make an offer in January or next summer.

However, they will face competition from Real Madrid for Cherki. The La Liga champions have followed the Lyon academy graduate for some time.

Cherki’s contract runs until 2023, after Lyon gave him a new deal earlier this summer.

Arsenal still interested in Aouar

Cherki is not the only Lyon starlet Arsenal have been keeping an eye on. Throughout the summer, Houssem Aouar was a top target.

However, they failed to reach an agreement for the 22-year-old before the transfer deadline. But that does not mean their interest has coolled.

According to reports earlier this week, Arsenal could relaunch a bid for Aouar in January if they can offload some other players first.

However, they will face competition from a European giant for the midfielder.

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