Money no object in Lyon's pursuit of elite

Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas claims money is no object as the club attempt to join the European elite.

The defending champions are once again top of the Ligue 1 table as they chase an eighth successive title.

However, the club's priorities have switched to the Champions League and Aulas revealed they are putting aside financial concerns for the pursuit of their European dream.

"It was decided that our priority was to get closer to the highest European level," he told French sports daily L'Equipe.

"We're going to let the financial results go for this year and the following two years.

"Our priority will be the sporting side and we will be looking to get up there with the best at all costs.

"We're going to invest in the winter transfer market. It's up to (coach) Claude Puel to choose.

"He has the responsibility of seeing what is the most pertinent choice and the possibility of making investments."

One player who could be heading for the Stade Gerland exit door is Fred.

The Brazil striker has made a renewed request to leave Les Gones after becoming frustrated at his lack of playing time and has asked for his contract, which expires at the end of the season, to be cancelled so he can secure a move in the January transfer window.

And Aulas admits it would be hard to replace the 25-year-old.

"He said he wants to leave," said the Lyon chief. "That's logical, he's a good negotiator. When he is not going to sign, he says he will sign and vice versa.

"To replace him in the market will be very difficult for us. I don't think Fiorentina will let us have (Alberto) Gilardino."

Aulas is certain that star striker Karim Benzema will remain at Lyon, despite growing speculation he is set for a move to Real Madrid.

"He won't leave," he said. "That's not what's planned. He will stay until 2010.

"Karim is indispensable, he's a player of world value."