Lyon battle to keep Clerc

Lyon boss Gerard Houllier is desperate to tie Francois Clerc to a new deal.

Lyon boss Gerard Houllier is keen to tie Francois Clerc to a new deal with Juventus keeping tabs on his situation.

The 22-year-old will be a free agent in the summer and has been offered a new deal worth four times the salary he currently earns at Stade Gerland.

After being linked with Marseille and Monaco, reports in Italy suggest Juve have also been impressed by the right back's form.

"I have been flattered by the new offer, as I have been flattered by the interest from clubs like Marseille and Monaco," declared Clerc.

"Three months ago, I was far away from imagining that.

"Anyway, that doesn't disturb me. I am still focused on my matches. For the rest, we will see in time."

Even though France international Anthony Reveillere is coming back to full fitness, Clerc will remain in the side that takes on Metz.

"Anthony has resumed training," added the defender. "But I don't ask myself many more questions.

"It is my character. I don't say I won't be upset the day I don't play any more.

"But that's the rules of football and you have to accept it.

"Anyway, I won't change my behaviour.

"I will do my best and keep on working to improve."

Clerc could yet earn a late call-up to France's World Cup squad and Juventus are looking for a new full back after missing out on Willy Sagnol of Bayern Munich.