Arsenal handed Lucas Paqueta transfer boost after admission from Lyon chief Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Lyon winger Lucas Paqueta and the French club's head of recruitment has admitted they may have to sell him this summer

 Lyon chief Bruno Cheyrou has admitted the club "need to reduce the squad size" amid rumours linking talisman Lucas Paqueta with Arsenal.

The Gunners are reportedly interested in signing Paqueta, who has three years remaining on his existing deal. Technical director Edu has revealed he's a big fan of the 33-cap Brazil international, 24, but claims Arsenal will not make a bid before September.

Paqueta joined Lyon from AC Milan two years ago and has since scored 21 goals in all competitions. He was named in Ligue 1's Team of the Year after his debut season in France and was part of the Brazil squad that won the Copa America on home soil in 2019.

Lyon are struggling financially and Cheyrou, who is their head of recruitment and technical advisor, has said they may need to sanction some sales this summer. Paqueta is valued at £31.5million by Transfermarkt, although he would likely be more expensive.

W

e need to reduce the squad size," recently admitted former Liverpool and Marseille midfielder Cheyrou, as quoted by The Metro. "In terms of departures, we will analyse offers on a case-by-case basis but the economics will come into consideration.

"We will consider the offers with [owner] Jean-Michel Aulas and [technical director] Vincent Ponsot in order to make the best decisions. I am here to ensure the best team possible, but there are other things to take into account as well."