Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has confirmed talks with Arsenal over a possible transfer for Alexandre Lacazette, but has hinted the clubs are yet to agree on a fee for the striker.
The France international has also been linked with Atletico Madrid this summer after scoring 37 goals for Lyon last season and deciding to move on to bigger things.
Lyon had been resigned to losing Lacazette to Atletico until the Spanish club’s transfer ban, and reports emerged yesterday that Arsenal were stepping up their interest and closing in on a deal.
Speaking today, Aulas has played down talk that the move is close to being done, and has made it clear that the Gunners must meet their valuation for the player if they hope to snap him up.
‘I do not intend to sell Alexandre quickly,’ Aulas told L’Equipe. ‘Because there is always the option of Atletico Madrid to signing him on January 1, 2018. I also listen to what Alexandre says.
‘I saw Arsene (Wenger) during the match between France and England. I was with Gerard Houllier (a club adviser) and I understand he told Gerard that there could be an interest from Arsenal. But it is premature to say that things will be done.
‘We can not let a player of that quality go without (signing) his replacement.
‘Everyone knows Atletico were going to pay 53 million euros plus a 12 million bonus. That’s 65 million.
‘The Arsenal executives are well informed, they will have to be in that range.’
https://www.instagram.com/p/BVtl_8MFcJc/?taken-by=lacazettealex&hl=en
Arsenal had a bid rejected for Lacazette last summer, but now seem more willing to pay the necessary price to strengthen their attack, with Arsene Wenger possibly set to lose Alexis Sanchez and Olivier Giroud this summer.
Judging by his Instagram activity, Lacazette is still on holiday, and we may know a great deal more about his future once he returns.
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