Arsenal Transfer Rumours: Grenier-Gervinho Swap Deal Possible in the Summer? As Lyon Playmaker Hints at Possible Move

Jun 01, 2013 05:30 AM EDT

Arsenal target Clement Grenier admitted he has made a decision on his future, with the Lyon playmaker hinting at a possible move to the Emirates.

Last month, Arsene Wenger confirmed his interest in the 22-year-old, likening him to former Arsenal player Samir Nasri.

However, Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas warned the Gunners it would cost the English Premier League club the same price paid by Bayern Munich for Mario Gotze -- €37 million (£31 million, $47 million) - to prise Grenier away from Lyon.

However, the talented playmaker only has a year remaining on his contract and Grenier said he had indeed made a decision on his future, although he refused which club he will be playing for next season.

"Have I made a decision? Yes. More or less," Grenier told Le Progres. "I keep it for myself as I care for my discussions I have had with the president and the coach.

"I just want to say that I've never had demands. Moreover, either with the club or with my advisors, figures were never mentioned. My choice is a sporting one."

Arsenal have quite a few attacking midfielders in their lineup; so it can be argued whether Grenier is essential for the side next season. The youngster will also find it difficult to get into the starting XI on a regular basis at Arsenal, but he is not concerned by the competition for places.

"A fight between Arsenal and Lyon for me? Maybe," he added. "The competition at Arsenal? There is already that here (at Lyon).

"It is the same in all the major clubs and it is not a hindrance in my decision making. I'm still a young player. But I always set goals and do everything to surpass myself. Whether it is at Lyon or elsewhere.

"For now, I'm still a Lyon player and I may stay next season. I do not know myself what will happen. The only thing I expect is really at a sporting level, and my desire is to progress."

Meanwhile, one of the flops of last season for the Gunners - Gervinho - has played down speculation of a move away from the Emirates in the summer.

Gervinho has been linked with moves to Turkey and France in the summer, with Lyon, interestingly, one of the clubs chasing the former Lille man.

However, the Ivory Coast international insists he intends to honor his contract, which runs until 2015.

"I have a contract until 2015 with Arsenal and I intend to honor it," he said. "There is always speculation in the papers, but I am looking forward to a good holiday and to come back to Arsenal.

"I want to win my place in the starting line-up week in, week out."

If Arsenal can do a swap deal with Lyon with Grenier moving to the Emirates and Gervinho and cash going to France, it will certainly be seen as an ideal deal.

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