Lyon chairman Jean-Michel Aulas has expressed his desire to hold on to Yoann Gourcuff, but admits Hugo Lloris could be tempted to leave.
Aulas admits Lloris could leave but wants key playmaker to stay
Lyon chairman Jean-Michel Aulas has expressed his determination to hold on to Yoann Gourcuff, but admits goalkeeper Hugo Lloris could be tempted to leave.
Gourcuff has been left out of the France squad for Euro 2012 following an injury-plagued season during which he was restricted to just 13 league appearances.
Aulas has mixed feelings about Gourcuff's omission but has made it clear that he expects the 25-year-old playmaker to stay at Stade Gerland.
"As Lyon chairman I am quite satisfied that Yoann can get some rest, but on a human level I feel sad for him," Aulas told
L'Equpe.
"People make a lot of comments about Yoann, but was he ready to play the Euros after an almost blank season?
"At the Euros he would have been probably a substitute, which would have been the worst solution.
"I never stated he will leave this summer. Anyway, to leave, you need an offer and there is no offer for Yoann.
"Moreover, I am not necessarily keen to let Gourcuff leave, so there is a 99 per cent chance he will remain a Lyon player next season."
Tempted
Lloris is another player to have been linked with a move away from Lyon, with AC Milan mentioned as a possible destination.
Aulas admits that Lloris would be interested in embarking on a new challenge but is unaware of any bids being received at this stage.
"I met him before he left for the French team. He told me if there is a proposition from a great European club, he could be tempted to go," Aulas explained.
"However, I don't think there is such an offer so far. The big European sides all have quality keepers."
