Pompey close on Diarra deal
Portsmouth are in the 'driving seat' to sign Alou Diarra, according
to Lyon chairman Jean-Michel Aulas.
The France international is one of Harry Redknapp's prime transfer
targets, although he has doubted the likelihood of a deal.
Werder Bremen have also expressed an interest in Diarra, who wants
to quit the French champions in search of regular first-team
football.
The latest reports in France suggest a bid of 9million (£6million)
will be enough to tempt Lyon into a sale.
Pompey are rumoured to have offered close to that figure already
and an increased bid is on the cards.
Lyon chairman Aulas has confirmed that the Premier League club are
currently the favourites to sign the former Liverpool
youngster.
"Portsmouth are in the driving seat," Aulas told the French
media.
"Diarra could leave in the coming days."
Redknapp has been desperate to strengthen his strike-force, but the
Pompey manager has also acknowledged a wish to bring in a new
midfielder.
