Ibrahim Afellay: Lille OSC Trying to Beat Arsenal, Tottenham for Signature

Lille OSC is wasting no time or effort in rebuilding their squad this summer. FootyLatest.com is reporting that LOSC is preparing an estimated €7 million bid for Barcelona midfielder Ibrahim Afellay. Afellay spent most of last season hampered by injuries but was part of the Dutch Euro 2012 squad.

If signed, Afellay would be the second major addition to Lille (after Marvin Martin) since Eden Hazard left for Chelsea earlier this summer. With both Afellay and Martin, Lille will have added two creative midfielders with international experience to their open offense.

After the loss of Hazard this summer, along with Cabaye and Gervinho last summer, LOSC is in need of a makeover in their attack. It is apparent that Lille is not satisfied with sitting pat after a string of finishes at the top of Ligue 1.

The budget afforded them from the aforementioned player sales and Champions League play has given them the financial ability to go after players of Afellay’s caliber.

Having the transfer funds to spend and using them wisely is key to keeping up with the super club Paris Saint-Germain is trying to assemble. With smart economical buys like Martin and Afellay, Lille can keep themselves in position to challenge for Ligue 1 honors.

Perhaps the biggest statement made by Lille in their efforts is the willingness to go head to head with the likes of Arsenal, Tottenham and others to reload their squad. Afellay has been reportedly followed by these squads, among others.

Afellay’s friendship with Robin van Persie has led to speculation that Arsene Wenger was keen on bringing the talented midfielder to London.

If Lille is successful in luring another high-end player to the coast of France, it could well be game on for PSG come the Ligue 1 season.