Lyon Sporting Director Juninho reportedly wanted to sign Franck Ribery on a free transfer last summer.

“Juninho wanted Franck (this summer). In 2006, I had nearly signed him but Marseille came back strong at the last moment and it did not get done. But I would’ve liked to have Franck, yes," said club president Jean-Michel Aulas.

Ribery, who ended up signing with Fiorentina, is out with an ankle injury.