French giants Lyon are considering making a move for former Arsenal midfielder Ismael Bennacer during the summer transfer window, but will need the Gunners to stand aside to do any deal.
Arsenal snapped up the youngster from French outfit AC Arles in 2015, but he left the club two years later and joined Italian side Empoli.
The 21-year-old has been in impressive form for Empoli this season and has been a key part of the team, making 30 Serie A appearances for the club during the ongoing campaign.
Bennacer’s performances in Italy have attracted the attention of several clubs, including Napoli, and bids could go in for him in the summer.
According to French magazine Le 10 Sport, the Algerian has emerged as a target for French giants Lyon, who have been left impressed by the young midfielder’s consistent showings in Italy.
Lyon have been probing the possibility of making a move for a player, who could cost around €15m in the summer.
However, there is also Italian interest in Bennacer as Napoli are considering snapping him up in the coming months.
But Arsenal have first refusal on the young midfielder as part of the agreement they struck when they allowed him to join Empoli.
His suitors would need Arsenal to stand aside if Bennacer is to leave the Italian side.
