Arsenal Pushing Hard To Sign €40m Midfielder

Arsenal are pushing to sign Lucas Paqueta this summer, with Lyon preparing to receive an offer for the midfielder.

Media Foot report that Arsenal are determined to sign Paqueta, and they're making a concerted effort to do a deal behind the scenes.

At this stage, the Gunners are focusing on convincing the player, before making an official bid to Lyon.

The French outlet report that several other clubs have already made moves for Paqueta, finding a consensus with Lyon and then having the player turn them down.

In an effort to avoid that outcome, Arsenal are working on the player's side first.

Paqueta has reportedly been hesitant to leave Lyon this year, but he's growing more open to the idea now.

As well as Arsenal, Newcastle United are also in the mix, having already made a €40m attempt to sign the midfielder.

That bid fell through on the basis of Paqueta's unwillingness to move to Newcastle, rather than Lyon rejecting the offer.

A similar bid of €40-50m from Arsenal could prove successful, though there's no suggestion the Gunners are ready to put up that amount yet.

It wouldn't be a surprise to see Arsenal making another move for a Brazilian player, led by technical director Edu.

Gabriel Martinelli has been joined by Gabriel Magalhaes, Marquinhos, and Gabriel Jesus since Edu's arrival.

That's likely due to a mixture of Edu's expertise in the Brazilian market, having previously worked for the national team, as well as the fact he's at his most convincing with his countrymen.

24-year-old Paqueta could be the next to join, as Arsenal could still use summer additions in midfield.

A particular benefit to the Brazilian international's transfer would be the goals he brings in the middle.

Paqueta scored 11 in all competitions last season, on top of seven assists. Arsenal could use that sort of boost in central areas.

It doesn't appear that the former AC Milan man will come cheap, however, so it remains to be seen whether Arsenal can afford the deal on top of their other business.