Arsenal striker Alexandre Lacazette is reportedly a subject of interest from clubs across Europe, with Juventus now interested in signing him.
According to Fichajes, the ever-increasing interest in Alexandre Lacazette has attracted the attention of Juventus. The Bianconeri might be eager to tie the Arsenal striker to a pre-contract in January with the view to completing a free transfer in the summer.
Alexandre Lacazette’s contractual situation at Arsenal has opened up a world of possibilities for the striker, with plenty of clubs queuing up for his services. Mikel Arteta initially opted to play without the Frenchman in the early part of the season, but he has become a key part of the Arsenal manager’s plans.
Lacazette has been deployed in a hybrid second striker role, considering how much he prefers to drop deep and collect the ball. While the formation tweaks have positively impacted Arsenal’s results, the Frenchman’s long-term future remains undecided.
Arsenal have reportedly been willing offer the French striker an extension, although Arteta might prefer to bring in a younger striker next summer. The Arsenal manager has changed most parts of his squad, opting to sign youthful players over experienced stars.
However, after proving his worth this season, the decision over an extension is time-bound. In January, Lacazette could begin negotiations with clubs outside of England and sign a pre-contract agreement. The idea of cashing in on the striker amid interest from Barcelona might be thrown out of the window, as Arteta views him as crucial to his plans this term.
However, Arsenal could change their stance if a generous offer comes in. Newcastle United are reportedly keen on Lacazette and could pay up a decent fee. However, the Frenchman might want to evaluate his options instead of joining the relegation-threatened Magpies.
He might prefer to sign for Atletico Madrid, who have been long-time admirers of the striker. However, if the Rojiblancos decide against a move, Lacazette might still have plenty of options to choose from, with Barcelona and Juventus reportedly keen on the striker.
Juventus have struggled this season and lost their fifth game in Serie A this weekend, prompting Massimiliano Allegri to give serious consideration to improving his attacking options. The likes of Dejan Kulusevski, Federico Bernardeschi and Alvaro Morata have been misfiring, and it could be time to bring in a reliable, experienced striker.
Lacazette could certainly be a good fit, as his skill set would improve Juventus’s current options. The Serie A giants might offer him lucrative terms, although the Arsenal striker would still likely be their alternative target behind Dusan Vlahovic.
Barcelona are also in need of a striker amid the uncertain futures of Luuk de Jong and Sergio Aguero. Xavi only has Memphis Depay as a reliable forward, and he cannot depend upon the Dutchman for the rest of the campaign.
As for Lacazette, he will have plenty of time and options to evaluate and decide upon his next destination. There is every chance of extending his stay with Arsenal, but his final decision will depend upon what he has on the table, especially with Newcastle United possibly lurking with an attractive offer.