Tuesday 2 August 2016 15:17, UK
Lyon remain open to the possibility of selling Alexandre Lacazette this summer, according to the French club's manager Bruno Genesio.
Lacazette, who only recently signed a new four-year deal at the Parc Olympique Lyonnais, has attracted interest from a number of clubs across Europe after scoring 92 goals in 230 appearances for the Ligue 1 outfit.
Arsenal saw a bid in the region of £30m rejected last week but are expected to return with an improved offer for the 25-year-old.
And the Gunners appear to have been handed a boost in their pursuit of the France international after Genesio admitted the striker may leave this summer.
"He can leave if Lyon want him to," said the 49-year-old.
"There are some offers that you cannot refuse. My desire as manager is that the best players stay and Lacazette is very important for the team.
"I have been assured by my president that we will keep the player. You never know what could happen right up until August 31."
Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has so far insisted the striker is not for sale at any price.
However, the French club are thought to value Lacazette at £40m and could be open to an offer from Arsenal if they are willing to meet this valuation.
Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is keen to add to his squad ahead of the new Premier League season after already securing the signings of Granit Xhaka, Takuma Asano and Rob Holding.
Arsenal face Norwegian club Viking in a friendly on Friday before travelling to Sweden to play Premier League rivals Manchester City in their final pre-season fixture.
