Sunday's Arsenal transfer talk news roundup: Houssem Aouar, Mesut Ozil, Dayot Upamecano

The January transfer window is now open, with Arsenal continuing to be linked with a host of big names.

The Gunners have endured a torrid first half of the season and have been tipped to bolster their ranks this month - in addition to offloading out-of-favour players - in a bid to turn their campaign around.

Here, Sports Mole rounds up the latest news on possible comings and goings at the Emirates Stadium.

Sunday morning's Arsenal transfer talk news roundup:

Arsenal 'convinced by Houssem Aouar'

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Arsenal allegedly remain convinced that they should make another approach for Lyon midfielder Houssem Aouar.

The Gunners appeared to be at the front of the queue for the Frenchman during the summer transfer window, only for a move to break down due to failing to agree a fee.

While Mikel Arteta's side have struggled to net in the Premier League, the 22-year-old has contributed three goals and three assists in Ligue 1.

According to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, club officials feel that the playmaker is the right player to add creativity to the current squad.

Speaking on the Feather on Football Podcast, Romano claimed that Arsenal would need to pay €60m (£53.3m) to tempt Lyon into a sale.

Lyon currently hold a one-point lead at the top of the Ligue 1 standings, making it highly unlikely that Aouar would leave in January.

Liverpool 'make Dayot Upamecano contact but also want Ibrahima Konate'

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Liverpool have reportedly made contact with the representatives of RB Leipzig centre-back Dayot Upamecano but are also interested in the Frenchman's teammate Ibrahima Konate.

Upamecano is widely expected to leave the Red Bull Arena during this summer's transfer window when a €42m (£37.3m) release clause in his contract comes into play.

According to Bild, Liverpool have made contact with the 22-year-old to discuss a move to Anfield, although the club are likely to face competition from the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United and Bayern Munich.

The report claims that Jurgen Klopp's side are also interested in Upamecano's Leipzig teammate Konate, who has also impressed during his time with the German outfit.

Konate, 21, has a contract with the Bundesliga club until the summer of 2023, and Arsenal have previously been credited with an interest in his services.

Liverpool currently have injury problems in the middle of their defence with Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez both on the sidelines with long-term knee problems.

More transfer news from Arsenal:

Mesut Ozil 'agrees to terminate Arsenal contract'
The 32-year-old has not played for the club since March and could leave on a free transfer. Read more.

Arsenal 'make contact with Emiliano Buendia agent'
Arsenal approach the agent of Norwich City playmaker Emiliano Buendia over a potential January deal, according to Fabrizio Romano. Read more.

Mesut Ozil 'to say Arsenal goodbyes on Sunday'
Arsenal attacker Mesut Ozil will reportedly say goodbye to his teammates on Sunday ahead of a move to Fenerbahce. Read more.

Atletico Madrid want Arsenal's Alexandre Lacazette?
Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone reportedly wants to bring Arsenal forward Alexandre Lacazette to the Spanish capital, despite the loan signing of Moussa Dembele. Read more.

Three clubs leading race for Arsenal's Folarin Balogun?
Three clubs are now regarded as serious contenders for the signature of Arsenal youngster Folarin Balogun, according to a report. Read more.

Arsenal 'keeping tabs on Ivan Toney'
Brentford forward Ivan Toney is being watched by Arsenal, who have been impressed by his development, according to a report. Read more.

Barcelona 'not thinking about selling Neto amid Arsenal interest'
Barcelona are reportedly open to selling a number of players this month, but second-choice goalkeeper Neto will stay put amid links with Arsenal. Read more.