Thomas Lemar was reportedly interested in a move to the Premier League and was ready to join both Arsenal and Liverpool.
According to a report by The Sun, Thomas Lemar narrowly missed out on a move to join either Arsenal or Liverpool this summer, despite being interested in both clubs. Arsene Wenger and Jurgen Klopp were both pursuing a deal for Lemar but the French club were hesitant on agreeing to a deal.
While it might seem like the opportune moment to cash in on the youngster after their illustrious victory last season, Monaco chief Vadim Vasilyev explained, “It was not easy. Thomas wanted to go to Arsenal and to Liverpool, but we had discussions and we took a communal decision so that he could stay here.
“He is a very important player for us. We could not have sold him, it would have affected the entire team and the individuals,” Vasilyev concluded. The stance is understandable since Monaco lost out on Kylian Mbappe, Bernardo Silva, Benjamin Mendy and Tiemoue Bakayoko – players who were crucial to their good fortune last term.
Thomas Lemar joined Monaco in a £3.4 million deal two years ago, and has enjoyed a stellar rise to prominence under Leonardo Jardim. The 21-year-old played pivotal roles in Monaco’s emphatic Ligue 1 victory as well as their semifinal run in the Champions League last season.
In 28 Ligue 1 appearances last season, Lemar contributed to nine goals and 10 assists. He shone for Monaco even in the Champions League, 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.
It is believed that Wenger is still eyeing a January deal for Lemar since the Gunners are in dire need of a quality winger. Theo Walcott’s inconsistent performances coupled with the Alexis Sanchez conundrum creates the requirement for a solid attacking player in their ranks, making Lemar a viable target.
French stars like Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira have touched massive heights under Arsene Wenger at Arsenal – records that are likely to entice Lemar. The Gunners will not be able to provide Champions League football for a while though, and that could tip the scales in favour of Liverpool.
However, Philippe Coutinho has not left Liverpool like he intended to. He will still go forward with his dominion over the Merseyside club’s midfield, which could lead to Lemar playing limited minutes. Regardless, the Reds missed out on signing Naby Keita and could be looking at Lemar as an alternative to boost their forces.
Come January, we might get to see a new turn in Lemar’s journey but it is certain that he will prove to be a tough target to sign given Monaco’s reluctance in selling one of their most prized possessions.
