Lyon captain Maxime Gonalons will be staying at the French Ligue 1 club next season, despite interest from abroad, he said on Wednesday.
"I've been able to ask myself the question. It's always pleasing to know that Arsenal or Napoli are interested in you but I've still got things to learn," said the 24-year-old midfielder from Lyon's training camp at Tignes, in the French Alps.
"Even though everything can happen in football, I prefer to stay with my club. I have this possibility to challenge for a World Cup place."
Coach Remi Garde is also hopeful young playmaker Clement Grenier will stay with the club despite also being the focus of outside interest.
However, Garde is eager to see France striker Bafetimbi Gomis, who is already on his way out of the club, conclude a deal quickly to free up much-needed funds.
"There's no desire to show Bafe a lack of respect. It's not an ideal situation but the club has pressing economic needs," said Garde.
Source: AFP
