Arsenal’s transfer activity seems to have notched up a gear in the last week or so as the links begin to get stronger and stronger, one player that continues to be linked is Alexandre Lacazette of Lyon.
With other targets like Jamie Vardy, Mauro Icardi and Gonzalo Higuain all turning down moves to the Emirates (if we were ever in for Icardi) – the options are looking few and far between for Arsene Wenger right now.
25-year-old Lacazette has often been dubbed as the most realistic striker to join Arsenal in a market that is really lacking natural goalscorers at the moment. But Lyon boss Bruno Genesio has other ideas:
I do not think he is at all affected by this period and the noises around him. In any case, he will stay at Lyon.”
So Bruno is keen to keep hold of Lacazette and confident he will stay. However there is more to this story.
Despite reports that the French striker has requested to leave the club, Lyon coach Hubert Fournier said Alexandre had not asked to leave the club, however he conceded a departure was still possible. These quotes somewhat contradict that of Bruno’s, although they are probably more honest:
“Things can still change. It is early July,” he said on Friday.
“The sooner it is resolved, the better it will be for everyone.
“He is still under contract and the club is the decision maker. At no time have I felt a request to leave from him.
“But this is not a worry that prevents me from sleeping. We are not preparing him for another team. Our mindset is different.”
West Ham previously had rejection from the striker, as the Frenchman claimed he wants to join a Champions League side, rather than moving for money. It is thought though that they had agreed a fee of around £34million with Lyon.
I think the French club know they need to part ways with Lacazette soon, but they have sensed Arsenal’s desperation and they may look to get more money than what they had previously reportedly accepted.
They are within their rights to do so and would be stupid not too. Gonzalo Higuain is set to join Juventus for an incredible £80million – meaning the market rates will probably go up once again. Napoli are also reportedly looking at Lacazette as a possible Higuain replacement, and they have the money to make a serious offer to Lyon.
For now I believe Arsenal’s focus lies elsewhere. Arsene Wenger, as usual, is in no rush as he continues to chase the very best quality he can – but will he be succesful?