Hatem Ben Arfa is hoping to talk with Lyon about his future despite still having two years left on his contract.

The 20-year-old midfielder has been linked with a move away along with team mate Karim Benzema - but he insists he is not looking to leave.

He said: "Until further notice, I am at Lyon until 2010. I should meet the chairman soon and we will see what happens.

"But I am fine here. As long as it is for my improvement, I am open to anything.

"I have been called into the French team while I was not in the Lyon starting XI yet.

"That was a big proof of trust from the national coach, and it was of big importance on a mental level to me. It also changed things at the club."

Ben Arfa did reveal that as a youngster United tried to lure him to Old Trafford - while he also confirmed the likes of Chelsea and Barcelona wanted him.

"Manchester United sent me a T-shirt signed by Ryan Giggs to convince me, then Jose Mourinho invited my family to Chelsea to see the facilities, and (Barcelona director of football) Txiki Beguiristain was negotiating with my agent three years ago.

"There was an offer but I preferred to continue my training in Lyon. It was better for me."

Ben Arfa was a late substitute for the first leg of their Champions League last-16 clash with United last month but is hoping to have more involvement this week.

"In the first match, let's say I was surprised to be on the bench," he said.

"I was in the starting XI for some time. So being substitute in such a match - at first, I was very disappointed and that is logical. But the coach makes his choices.

"I am just 20, I still have to improve a lot. I still have work to do. If I was perfect I would already have won the Ballon d'Or!"

Ben Arfa is confident Lyon can find a way through at United.

"I have noticed the attacking potential at Man United is huge. But at the back, there are some gaps. We can really score goals against team. We have to go there with a lot of ambition."

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