Alexandre Lacazette has reportedly decided to remain in the Premier League, thus dealing a blow to Juventus, who were keen on the Frenchman.
According to Calciomercato, Juventus have been dealt with a blow in their pursuit of striker Alexandre Lacazette, who might prefer to stay in the Premier League. The French forward’s contract with Arsenal expires in the summer and has plenty of admirers from across the continent.
Alexandre Lacazette, once a record signing for Arsenal, is on the verge of free agency when his contract expires in north London. He could certainly entertain pre-contract talks with any European sides in January, but he will have to wait until the summer to discuss terms with Premier League teams.
Arsenal have already started looking for replacements despite some talk of an extension after Lacazette’s impressive displays this season. Mikel Arteta has been coy on the striker’s situation, although it looks increasingly likely the Frenchman will depart the Gunners in the summer or in January if a very good offer arrives.
Some clubs have been keen on signing him in the upcoming winter transfer window. Arsenal have placed a £10 million price tag on him, although it’s unlikely Arteta will sanction any move without securing a reliable replacement. There is sufficient interest from the likes of Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and Sevilla from Spain.
There are also admiring glances from Premier League sides, with Newcastle United one of the prime contenders to make a January move. Manchester City were also rumoured to be keeping tabs on the striker, and it is now believed that Lacazette reportedly wants to further his career in England rather than moving to another league.
He was reportedly keen on Atletico, but with Antoine Griezmann already in their ranks, it might be unlikely Diego Simeone brings in another frontman. Juventus were also leading the charge from Italy, with the Bianconeri keen on recruiting a forward to complement Paulo Dybala and Alvaro Morata. They have been ineffective for most parts this season.
They were hoping to lure the Arsenal star in January to save their underwhelming season, as finishing in the top-four has seemingly become their priority. Lacazette’s addition would have certainly bolstered their goalscoring prowess, especially now that they miss Cristiano Ronaldo’s goals.
However, the suggestion is that Lacazette might stay put for the time being with Arsenal, which is more of Arteta’s decision. Even then, he would like to prolong his career in the Premier League in the next phase, which is certainly a blow for the Old Lady.
It remains to be seen which club the Frenchman ends up joining after the season concludes. There could be a fair few teams who might like to have him on board, although only a handful might be able to match his financial demands.
