Brentford register interest in Lyon striker Georges Mikautadze | OneFootball

Brentford have joined the race to sign Olympique Lyonnais striker Georges Mikautadze, according to Foot Mercato.

The 24-year-old Georgian international was a key figure for Lyon last season, bagging 18 goals and nine assists in 49 matches across all competitions.

Despite his importance to the team, Lyon’s precarious financial situation has put pressure on the club to offload some of its most valuable assets.

Les Gones reportedly need to raise around €40 million from player sales, and Mikautadze is one of their most marketable players, especially given Malick Fofana’s recent decision to stay with the club.

La Liga outfit Villarreal have shown interest in Mikautadze and are preparing a €30m offer after agreeing a deal to sell Yeremy Pino to Crystal Palace.

Brentford’s interest in Mikautadze is linked to Yoane Wissa, who is a target for Newcastle United and is hoping to move before the September 1 transfer deadline.

The Bees had been adamant in their desire not to sell Wissa, but are now resigned to losing him. They do not plan to sanction a sale until a replacement is found.

Despite losing several key figures from last season, Brentford have made a promising start to the new campaign under Keith Andrews.

After losing their opening league fixture to Nottingham Forest, Brentford responded with a victory over Aston Villa.