Manchester City are being blamed for Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas' tirade this week.
After defeat to AS Monaco on the weekend, Aulas blasted the players on social media.
He stated: "This match against Monaco shows us all the way to go to achieve all our goals. Some players are far below their potential, those who think they can make big transfers at the end of the year are wrong. You have to talk less and give a lot more."
It was originally thought the target of Aulas' ire was Memphis Depay.
However, L'Equipe says Aulas was talking about Tanguy Ndombele, who is the subject of intense interest from Manchester City.
Lyon officials are becoming increasingly resigned to losing Ndombele to City this summer.