Arsenal is very close to signing Lyon striker Alexandre Lacazette which could trigger Olivier Giroud’s move to rivals West Ham United this summer, according to The Sun.
The French striker was on the verge of joining Spanish club Atletico Madrid but the move cannot happen as Los Rojiblancos are set to serve transfer ban this summer which will not see them sign any new players until January.
The ban served as a blessing in disguise for Gunners as they are now in pole position to land the Frenchman before the end of summer transfer window. Arsenal is presented with more chances after their arch rivals Chelsea agreed on a £16.5m to sell Bertrand Traore to Lyon.
Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas confirmed: “We’re fine-tuning the talks with the player and I hope to be able to conclude the deal in the next few days.”
The French club is also considering to make a move for Manchester City defender Eliaquim Mangala for £20m as they are set to fund the deals by selling Alexandre Lacazette.
The Gunners are ready to pay £50m for the 26-year-old as he is willing to seek a new challenge in his career. Lacazette is in terrific form last season scoring 37 goals in all competitions for Lyon. However, the move could see Arsenal offload Olivier Giroud who is desperate for regular playing time.
He might even lesser game time in the upcoming season which could seriously hamper his chances of making it to the national squad for 2018 World Cup if he decides to stay. The French striker is linked with numerous clubs in the recent weeks but is keen to stay in London which makes West Ham as favourites to complete his signing before the end of transfer window.
Arsene Wenger has promised the fans that he will be spending big this summer and the signing of Alexandre Lacazette would be the ideal way to start their transfer window. The Gunners are also looking for a potential replacement for Alexis Sanchez as the Chilean is not keen on a new deal with the club.