L'Equipe revealed that the French tactician has been monitoring the 21-year old player and suggested that he is preparing to table a bid for him next summer.

Ben Arfa, who has Tunisian origins, had an impressive start of the season but he was sidelined as he refused to hold talks over a contract extension.

The talented winger could be a perfect replacement for Tomas Rosicky who has been struggling with injuries since the beginning of the season.

According to the report, the Gunners are ready to cash 15m euros to bring the French midfielder at The Emirates.

However Lyon chairman Jean-Michel Aulas denied having any offers from the Arsenal bosses concerning Ben Arfa.