Sought-after Lyon star Houssem Aouar could be a marquee summer signing for Roma, according to Calciomercato. The reigning Europa Conference League holders are at the front of the queue to take him away from Ligue 1.
Arsenal’s interest in the Lyon playmaker has subsided. The Gunners are long-term admirers of Aouar. But after capturing the signature of Fabio Vieira from Porto, they have settled their midfield. That paves the way for Roma.
Jose Mourinho hopes to bolster his midfield options in the summer. With Jordan Veretout’s future in the capital up in the air, the Giallorossi are on the lookout for a technically-gifted playmaker. It appears the Special One has chosen Aouar.
The Frenchman’s deal at the Groupama Stadium runs until summer 2023. Aouar has fended off every Lyon attempt to tie him down to a new contract thus far. His reluctance to stay in his homeland could facilitate the Italians’ bid to bring him to Serie A.
Despite wrapping up their maiden European silverware, Roma are working on a limited budget. It means Mourinho can forget about splashing out high figures as he used to do at Chelsea, Real Madrid and Manchester United.
If the Portuguese manager is to strengthen his squad, he will have to seek cut-price deals. Luckily for Roma, Aouar fits the bill. Corentin Tolisso’s potential return to Lyon would hand the Giallorossi’s pursuit of the 23-year-old a boost.
The Ligue 1 powerhouse and the outgoing Bayern Munich midfielder are discussing a renunion. Tolisso will become a free agent at the end of June. He is seemingly keen to re-join Lyon upon the expiration of his contract in the Bundesliga.
It’s music to Mourinho’s ears. With Arsenal out of the frame and Aouar’s replacement incoming, Roma could pull off a significant piece of business this summer.