According to Fabrizio Romano, AS Roma are close to signing Houssem Aouar from Olympique Lyon as a free agent at the end of the season.

Aouar is a product of the Lyon academy and has never played for another club yet. However, a number of clubs were credited with interest in his services in the past, most notably Arsenal, and as his contract approaches its expiration date this summer, it seems he’s finally set to leave his boyhood club. He was reportedly keen on joining the Gunners a few years ago, but the two clubs couldn’t find common ground regarding the transfer fee.

The central midfielder, who can play as a No. 10 behind a striker as well, has made a total of 231 appearances for Lyon across all competitions, scoring 41 goals and contributing 36 assists. His only appearance for France to date came in October 2020.

Apparently, an agreement between Roma and the 24-year-old has been reached in principle and a five-year contract is expected to be signed in the coming days.

AS Roma are closing in on deal to sign Houssem Aouar as free agent. There’s an agreement in principle, waiting on contract to be signed in the next days. #transfers @SkySport

Aouar’s contract will be valid until June 2028 — here we go soon. pic.twitter.com/hnCo9scfm0

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 7, 2023