Arsenal have reportedly submitted an increased bid of €50 million to AS Monaco in an attempt to secure the services of Thomas Lemar
According to a report by L’Equipe, Arsenal have tabled an increased offer of €50 million for Thomas Lemar as they try to convince the French champions to part ways with one of their star performers. The Gunners have already had two offers rebuffed by Monaco, but that has clearly not deterred them.
Monaco enjoyed a scintillating season last term, and it comes as no surprise that their players have attracted a slew of big names. But, the French club are understood to be reluctant to part ways with Lemar and have insisted that he is not for sale.
However, with an increased bid, it will be interesting to see how they proceed. Lemar joined Monaco in a £3.4 million deal from Caen two years ago, and enjoyed a stellar campaign under Leonardo Jardim in what was his second season at Stade Louis II.
The Frenchman played a pivotal role in Monaco’s emphatic Ligue 1 victory as well as their Champions League run which lasted till the semi-finals.
In 28 Ligue 1 appearances last season, Lemar bagged nine goals and ten assists. He shone for Monaco in the Champions League as well, with two goals and four assists in nine games. For a youngster like him, such numbers speak volumes about the amount of potential he possesses.
Arsenal’s interest in him could be an exciting opportunity likely to work in Lemar’s favour in the long run, considering the proven track record that Arsene Wenger boasts in grooming attacking players. Having said that, the Gunners will not be able to provide Champions League football next season so that could be a deal-breaker.
If the deal does go through, Lemar has a lot of potential and can be shaped into a lethal midfielder under Wenger’s watchful eye. Hence, Arsenal will hope their latest attempt will be enough to secure a deal for Lemar even as they are believed to have already agreed to personal terms.
Essentially, signing Lemar could pave the way for Alexis Sanchez to leave the Gunners since the young Frenchman can act as a replacement. Wenger, however, has maintained that Sanchez is not for sale this summer so Lemar is likely to work with the Chilean superstar which can only benefit him and the club next season.
