Crucially, sources close to Lacazette have revealed to Telegraph Sport that the striker is strongly interested in the move and wants to go, although it remains to be seen whether he can resist Lyon's attempts to offer their highest-paid player another extended contract.

It would appear unlikely that Arsenal would bid as high as €50 million but privately Aulas has made it clear he will not accept anything less for Lacazette who, although he wants to leave, is not expected to push for a move in public.

There is a strong emotional pull for Lacazette to stay at Lyon and coach Bruno Genesio, who has been a big influence on the player after taking over during last season, has met with the France international to stress how important he is to his plans and how much he wants him to stay.

Lyon also know that Arsenal face a striker crisis having missed out on Jamie Vardy and with Olivier Giroud set to miss the start of the season after his extended involvement in Euro 2016 - and with Danny Welbeck not yet returned to full fitness.