As per recent reports, Arsenal have decided against offering Alexandre Lacazette a new contract. The Gunners are supposedly ready to let the player go for free next summer.
Alexandre Lacazette has been one of the striker options for Mikel Arteta in his seasons as manager. The Arsenal no.9 is always in and out of the starting-11 but has found a few consistent starts this season. The 2020 FA cup winner with the Gunners, the Frenchman is a top-quality striker.
However, his inconsistencies and lack of goal involvements have now made the club question his presence. With his contract expiring in 2022, the player is most likely to take an exit from the Emirates.
Lacazette still a top player amidst criticism
The Frenchman first played for Ligue 1 club Olympique Lyonnais. The best season of his career was the 2014/15 campaign at the club. The 30-year-old striker bagged 27 goals and 8 assists in 33 Ligue 1 appearances, making him the top scorer and player of the season in the French league. (stats via TRANSFERMARKT)
His continuous success at the French club was what made Arsenal sign the player. The France international joined the Gunners in summer 2017 for a club-record fee of £46.5 million(+£6.1 million). It was the largest fee ever received by Lyon from a sale of a player. Lacazette had a decent start at the Emirates, with 14 goals and 5 assists in the 2017/18 Premier League season. However, things started going down in the 2019/20 season, where he only got 10 goals and 6 assists in 30 league games. (stats via TRANSFERMARKT)
The next season ended on similar lines. Unluckily, he started off the current season with injuries and illnesses. However, with his return, he is now getting some decent playing time and regular starts under Arteta. With Arsenal in top form right now, the Frenchman has a chance to redeem himself as there are no doubts about his potential.
What is next for Alexandre Lacazette after Arsenal?
While the player was looking for another long-term contract from the Gunners, the club has decided on the contrary and are ready to lose him for free next year. Lacazette still has good finishing and headed attempts and often helps in the team’s defence. While he is not just a finisher but a creator as well.
It is believed that Atletico Madrid are the frontrunners to sign the former Les Gones’ player. The Spanish club were the ones to sign the Frenchman in the first place in 2017 if they would have got rid of their 2-years transfer window ban.
However, Atletico will have to fend off rivals FC Barcelona to sign the player, who are struggling themselves with the no.9 situation.
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