Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas believes it will be difficult for Arsenal to afford Houssem Aouar.
The 22-year-old midfielder has been linked with the Gunners, PSG, Manchester City and Juventus.
The Ligue 1 club value Aouar at €60m and Aulas thinks the price will be too hefty.
Asked if Aouar could remain with Lyon, Aulas told Le Progres: "Financially, Arsenal are like everyone else [in a tricky spot amid the coronavirus pandemic].
"And Houssem could say to himself that the best thing would be to stay with us."