Lille have revealed that they will speak to Arsenal about a possible Premiership move for Gervinho.
The Ivorian international captain, who has a year left on his contract, has attracted interest from several top flight clubs including Manchester City and Spurs, whose recent £10.6m bid was rejected.
However, Lille general manager Frederic Paquet has suggested that the Emirates is the most likely destination.
“He actually wants to leave,” Paquet told French radio station RMC. “We have developed contacts with Arsenal and we will soon discuss with them to see what they want.
“He expressed his desire to leave for England so we’ll see what will happen. Gervinho chose to leave for England, so that limits the scope of the situation.
“We will meet soon with Arsenal and see what they offer, but he is a player of value.”
Paris St Germain had expressed strong interest in the player, but the French champions made it plain that they would not sell to a domestic rival.
The 24-year-old forward is credited with playing a key part in Lille’s league and French cup double last season.