Former Arsenal target agrees surprise free transfer after rejecting Man Utd move

Former Arsenal target Houssem Aouar is set to make a surprise free transfer to another club, according to reports - after allegedly rejecting a proposal from Manchester United.

The France international came through Lyon's academy, and quickly developed into one of the side's key players.

He helped them reach the semi-finals of the Champions League in 2020, defeating Manchester City over two legs en route to that stage.

After those displays, Arsenal were linked with an interest in the 24-year-old, who has 41 goals in 225 appearances for the French club.

But they failed to meet Lyon's valuation, with Mikel Arteta's side looking elsewhere. On transfer deadline day, the Gunners activated the release clause of Atletico Madrid star Thomas Partey.

For Aouar, he has suffered an injury-hit 2022/23 season, and has made just nine Ligue 1 appearances, scoring once.

With his contract due to expire this summer, he has reportedly agreed a deal to depart the Groupama Stadium.

Former Arsenal target agrees move

According to SPORT1 journalist Patrik Berger, Aouar is set to join Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt in the summer, following the conclusion of his deal at Lyon.

He also claimed that the France international turned down an offer from Manchester United to bring him to Old Trafford.

Berger tweeted: "Houssem Aouar is close to join Eintracht Frankfurt as free agent.

"The 24yo midfielder turned down proposals from other clubs in summer, like Man United. Nothing signed yet but negotiations in advanced stages."

If his move to Frankfurt is finalised, Aouar will play alongside German World Cup winner Mario Gotze at Deutsche Bank Park, as well as France star Randal Kolo Muani - providing both players remain at the club this summer.

Aouar could replace Japan international Daichi Kamada, with Fabrizio Romano claiming the 26-year-old is close to joining Borussia Dortmund this summer after six years at Frankfurt.