Lyon chief still hopeful of Essien deal
The 22-year-old playmaker, who was last year’s Ligue 1 Player of the Year, has been at the centre of negotiations between the four-time French champions and the Blues, who have yet to match Aulas’ £31million (€45million) asking price.
An initial Chelsea bid for Essien was turned down before Aulas and Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon held face-to-face talks leading to an increased offer that was also rejected.
Essien, who admits he is desperate for a move to Stamford Bridge, flew to South Korea against his wishes on Thursday to play for Lyon in the Peace Cup.
But Aulas has made it clear that Chelsea will be given more time to offer the asking price when Lyon are eliminated from the competition, although he will lower Essien’s price in a year’s time.
“The negotiations have not stopped,” said Aulas, “but I told him (Peter Kenyon) that I will not discuss after July 21 or July 25.
“With Michael we have a lot more chances to win a fifth French title next year but if he leaves it cannot be at a price that is lower than that asked for the best players in the world.
“Chelsea had accepted Liverpool’s price for Steven Gerrard (reported to be £32million) so I told Chelsea that Michael would only leave at Gerrard’s price.
He added: “For now they have refused.
“Lyon have reached a new step, we are not necessarily obliged to sell to develop the club. I am ready to keep him (Essien) for another year and transfer him next year for a much lower price.”
Essien meanwhile did not hide his discontent at having travelled to Asia as he received his marching orders during Lyon’s 1-1 draw on Friday against Colombian outfit Once Caldas and was suspended against Korean side Seongnam on Sunday.
He will play Wednesday against PSV Eindhoven.
“It makes me feel sad to see him that way,” added Aulas.
“He is usually very happy, smiling and enthusiastic about everything.
“I don’t think he does it on purpose to be that sad, he is truly unhappy. But the team is not penalised by this situation.
“Chelsea did all they could to push him to decide not to come to Korea with us.
“As far as I am concerned I respected Michael’s will to see me meet with Peter Kenyon.
“On the other hand I ordered that Essien came with us simply because the players cannot always get what they want.
“He eventually came. He is contracted to Lyon, and for another three years.”
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