Arsenal Transfer News: Despite admitting to being a “huge fan” of Lyon midfielder and potential transfer target Lucas Paqueta, Gunners technical director Edu believes a move for the Brazilian is unlikely.

This summer, a number of clubs from across Europe have expressed interest in the Lyon star, including several Premier League teams, the biggest of which is Arsenal. Due to his exceptional technical ability and age profile, many believe Paqueta is the ideal choice to upgrade Arsenal’s midfield.

But Edu has put an end to rumours that the 24-year-old will be moving to the Emirates this summer, as he claimed that Arsenal hasn’t even gotten in touch with Lyon about the potential of a move happening before the window closes on September 1.

The Arsenal manager defended Lucas in a statement to TNT Sports Brazil, saying: “I’m a guy who likes him a lot. I’ve liked him ever since my time with Brazil’s national team.

Arsenal Transfer News: What did Edu say?

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“He had a fantastic season and was regarded as the top foreign player in the French league. However, the truth is that as of right now, there hasn’t even been a talk to sign him. We have a lot of players at that position, so there is nothing to mention more.”

Paqueta won the award for the best foreign player in Ligue 1 last season. His performances led Lyon to hang a £67.6 million price tag on his head in an effort to deter possible suitors.

It’s possible that the Gunners are passing up a real opportunity to sign one of Europe’s most in-demand midfielders.

Jean-Michel Aulas, the manager of Lyon, has acknowledged he would not obstruct Paqueta if he indicated a desire to go.

What did Aulas say?

“There are possibilities for him,” said Aulas, a famously challenging operator. “Some players may feel finished with the project, while others may not.

“We have the financial resources to pursue our ideas and goals. We heard from the coach, and the players also expressed their desires.”

Arsenal is rumoured to be interested in a number of midfielders. Youri Tielemans of Leicester City and the Belgium national team is the most prominent target.

The former Anderlecht player is rumoured to be intent on joining the Gunners this summer. However, he has just one year remaining on his contract with the Foxes. Arsenal has not yet made a formal offer for the 25-year-old.