Monaco close on Rachid Ghezzal

Ligue 1 champions Monaco have emerged as favourites to sign former Lyon winger Rachid Ghezzal, according to L’Equipe.

The 25-year-old became a free agent after failing to reach an agreement with les Gones, despite virtually accepting the monthly salary of €280,000.

The likes of AC Milan, Stoke City, Southampton and Nice have all been showing interest in the Algerian, but it would appear as though Monaco are set to win the chase.

The Principality club offered Ghezzal a long-term deal worth €180,000 per month plus a €3 million signing bonus, which seems to have done the trick.

And with Thomas Lemar nearing a move to Arsenal, the talented winger should replace the France international at Stade Louis II.

Capable of operating on either wing, Ghezzal managed a total of 14 goals and 20 assists in 119 appearances for Lyon.