Arsenal have learned the price tag of Lyon attacking midfielder Lucas Paqueta, according to reliable reporter Fabrizio Romano.

Romano has informed GiveMeSport that the Gunners will have to stump up €65 million (£55.4m) to prise the 24-year-old away from the Groupama Stadium this summer.

What is the latest news involving Paqueta?

GOAL Brasil have reported that Arsenal are ‘considering’ a move for Paqueta, with director of football Edu said to be particularly interested in securing his signature.

Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas also recently revealed that ‘there are proposals’ for the creative talent as speculation over his immediate future continues to mount.

However, Arsenal could face competition for Paqueta from fellow Premier League outfit Newcastle United, who are also said to be closely monitoring his situation.

The Brazil international enjoyed an impressive 2021/22 campaign for Lyon despite their struggles, registering 11 goals and seven assists in 43 appearances across all competitions.

What has Romano said about Paqueta?

A formal offer is yet to arrive for Paqueta despite the continued speculation surrounding his future, and Romano has now disclosed exactly how much his potential suitors will have to pay.

In an interview with GiveMeSport, Romano said: “So, at the moment, there is still no bid from Arsenal for Paqueta.

“What I'm told is that Lyon want around €65 million with some add-ons included. So, the fixed fee could be lower, but they want to arrive at this potential package for Paqueta.”

Where would Paqueta fit in?

Paqueta is most comfortable playing as a number 10 behind a striker, or a pair of strikers, although he is capable of playing in a slightly deeper role.

That may understandably raise the question of whether Mikel Arteta actually needs another player with the South American’s attributes given the options already available to him at the Emirates Stadium.

Arteta already has Martin Odegaard, Emile Smith Rowe and summer signing Fabio Vieira to call upon for creativity through the middle and is also well-stocked in deeper central midfield positions.

Therefore, Arsenal would perhaps be better focussing their resources on areas of the pitch that are in greater need of reinforcements.

Having missed out on Raphinha to Barcelona and the growing speculation surrounding the future of Nicolas Pepe, a new winger would perhaps be of greater use to Arteta as he attempts to guide Arsenal back into the top four.