Real Madrid have launched a last-minute attempt to hijack a deal for Arsenal target Houssem Aouar, according to reports in France.
Sportsmail understands the Gunners are in talks with Lyon to sign the French midfielder, but the north London club have yet to agree a fee with the Ligue 1 side for the 22-year-old.
And according to French outlet L'Equipe, that failure to so far find an agreement has allowed LaLiga champions Real Madrid to enter the race and take the France Under 21 international from under Arsenal's noses.