Arsenal to rival Premier League side for signing of Ligue 1 star

Arsenal are set to rival Newcastle United for the signing of Lyon midfielder Lucas Paqueta, according to reports. 

As per French outlet Media Foot, the Gunners are keen on signing the 24-year-old, who has impressed for the French side over the past two seasons.

Paqueta is a former teammate of Bruno Guimaraes, and reports have linked the pair with a reunion at St. James’ Park as Newcastle look to sign the Brazilian, although Arsenal are hopeful of hijacking the deal.

The player, who is contracted to Lyon until 2025, has scored 21 goals and provided 13 assists in 77 games for the club.

Paqueta is a target for both Arsenal and Newcastle United

The Ligue 1 side’s president, Jean-Michel Aulas, has revealed that they have already received offers for the player.

“There are offers for him.” he told Goal yesterday.

“There are some players who can feel fully fulfilled by the project, and others who can’t.

“Economically, we have the means to pursue our ideas and our objectives.”

Arsenal have already signed Gabriel Jesus, Fabio Vieira, Marquinhos and Matt Turner so far this summer.