Club president confirms Arsenal interest in signing top 26-year-old striker
Arsenal want to sign Alexandre Lacazette this summer, according to Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas
Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has confirmed Arsenal’s interest in signing striker Alexandre Lacazette this summer.
The Gunners have been heavily linked with a move to land the France international in recent days as Arsene Wenger looks to bolster his attacking options ahead of next season.
Now, Lyon chief Aulas has confirmed that he recently met with the Arsenal boss and is under the impression that the north London side could be ready to make a move to sign the 26-year-old Lacazette.
However, Aulas also insisted that a deal is far from being concluded and that the interest was only preliminary.
Aulas told French newspaper L’Equipe: “I do not intend to sell Alexander quickly, because there is always the option of Atletico Madrid to signing him on January 1, 2018,” Aulas told L’Equipe.
“I also listen to what Alexandre says.
“I saw Arsene during the match between France and England [on June 13]. I was with Gerard Houllier [who is an adviser to Aulas] 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 his replacement [lined up].”
Arsenal are believed to be on the lookout for attacking reinforcements this summer as Wenger aims to build a team capable of challenging for the Premier League title next season.
The north London side, however, will not be able to offer the lure of Champions League football next season after the Gunners ended up fifth in the Premier League table last term.
