Back in January, Manchester City ‘asked for information’ regarding Bilel Hassaini, an 18-year-old forward from AS Nancy Lorraine in France.
Going against clubs such as Atlético Madrid, Valencia and Barcelona, the Cityzens were among the European elite eyeing up a potential bargain, yet it’s Premier League rivals who have made the first move.
Foot Mercato, who announced the Premier League champions’ interest in the first place, claim both Arsenal and Crystal Palace have made offers for the winger.
Already an U17 international for France, Hassaini refused to sign a professional contract with Nancy, leading to many offers from abroad.
The French website explain the Gunners want him for their U23 squad, where he would take part in the Youth League, while the Eagles are happy to put him straight into their first-team squad.
Unfortunately for both Arsenal and Crystal Palace, Hassaini’s priority is said to be a move to Paris Saint-Germain, which has led Nancy’s president to contact the capital’s club directly to try and get a deal over the line before July 1st.
Should any transfer take place, the French minnows would pocket €300k thanks to formation fees.
Perhaps it’s time for Arsenal and the Eagles to up their offer and be more convincing?
