Liverpool’s hopes of signing Lyon striker Alexandre Lacazette this summer have taken a major blow, after the French club’s president said that the Reds “could not afford” Ligue 1’s top scorer from last season.

French international Lacazette, who struck 27 goals in the French top flight last term, has been linked with a move to Anfield this summer.

The Lyon president Jean Michel Aulas has responded to a post on Twitter linking Lacazette with Liverpool by writing:

“Liverpool have never called, and as they are not playing in the Champions League, they don’t have the money, nor would they be able to interest him.”

Last September, the 24-year-old signed a contract extension with Lyon, who finished second in Ligue 1 but the highly-rated striker has constantly been linked with a move away.

Lacazette has been at Lyon for his whole career, and made his professional debut for the club back in 2010.

He has made six appearances for the French national team, scoring one goal.

Liverpool have also been linked with a move for Danny Ings this summer, the striker will be a free agent this summer with his Burnley contract expiring on 30 June.

The transfer window re-opens on 1 July.

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