Moussa Dembele has rejected a final contract offer from Lyon, fuelling speculation about a summer transfer to Manchester United.
The Frenchman, 26, has just one year left on his existing deal and is expected to see out the remainder of his contract, yet reports earlier this month suggested United are considering making a late swoop for him if Cristiano Ronaldo gets his transfer wish.
Dembele has a decent record in front of goal, finding the net 22 times last season. He is best know for his two-year spell in Scotland, scoring 32 goals during the 2016/17 campaign to help Celtic go unbeaten in 47 domestic games and win three pieces of silverware.
As reported by French outlet L'Equipe, Dembele is not interested in extending his stay at Lyon. Manager Peter Bosz has informed the prolific forward he will be his second-choice striker behind Alexandre Lacazette, who recently completed a free transfer from Arsenal.
That has come as a blow to Dembele after he was temporarily given the captain's armband last season, scoring 17 times while wearing it. Lacazette has since been confirmed as Lyon's new skipper, with fellow new signing Corentin Tolisso taking the vice-captaincy.
It's believed Lyon have offered him a two-year extension, yet he has no intention of signing it. Dembele, who is yet to earn his first senior cap, may now seek a summer transfer to push himself into consideration for France's World Cup squad.
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If that's not possible, Dembele could consider his options next summer when he becomes a free agent. Turkish sides Fenerbahce and Galatasaray have been muted as possible destinations, while he could reconsider his Lyon future if he regains his spot.
It's claimed Dembele is not stressed about the situation, which could hamper United's hopes of landing him. As reported by the Manchester Evening News, the Red Devils are in contact with the player's representatives and haven't ruled out a late move.
United manager Erik ten Hag is said to be keen to bolster his attacking options, which will become a must if Ronaldo leaves the club. The Portuguese superstar wants to quit Old Trafford before the transfer deadline, although his options are looking increasingly limited.
Ronaldo started Monday night's 2-1 win against Liverpool from the bench and could struggle to be recalled to the starting XI after that impressive display. Borussia Dortmund, Sporting Lisbon and Chelsea have been muted as possible destinations.
Dembele, meanwhile, boasts a decent CV after spells with Fulham, Celtic, Lyon and Atletico Madrid (loan) - winning seven trophies, including the La Liga title. He's scored 137 goals at club level, breaking the 20-goal barrier four times during his career.
It's believed Dembele has already rejected the chance to join Frank Lampard's Everton this summer. His only previous experience of playing in the Premier League came during the 2013/14 campaign, when he made two outings for relegated Fulham.
