Lyon are slowly undertaking their planning for the 2020/21 campaign from a transfers perspective, turning their attention in recent weeks to the lack of quality at left-back.

19-year-old French youth international Melvin Bard has stunned in pre-season in the position, but was left out of the squad to face PSG last week in the Coupe de la Ligue final. The teenager has asked to leave the club, having been convinced by Bayern Munich to move there after they made OL a bid worth just under €1m to acquire his services.

This offer was flatly turned down by Lyon, who can’t comprehend Bard’s desire to move when he knows that the Bavarian side intends to integrate him into their 3rd division reserve team should the move be completed. Bayern have yet to up their bid and OL are moving to take advantage. They have in recent days offered Bard a new contract until 2024, which includes a considerable wage hike, according to L’Équipe.

The player and his representatives are considering this proposal and have asked for a few days to think it over. Rudi Garcia wants Bard to be involved in his 1st team squad and will have him on the bench on Friday in OL’s Champions’ League clash with Juventus. In Garcia’s mind, Bard has now surpassed Youssouf Koné in the hierarchy in this position.

Koné was signed from Lille for €9m last summer but has been a serious disappointment, unfortunately suffering fitness issues since his arrival. OL would like to sell him if at all possible, but if not would even happily loan him out this window.

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