Atletico offer star as makeweight in bid to sign key Arsenal man

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Atletico Madrid could use Arsenal’s interest in Thomas Lemar to land Alexandre Lacazette, according to reports in Spain.

The Gunners have long been linked with a move for winger Lemar, who was set to move to north London in 2017 before a deal fell through.

Atletico are favourites to sign Edinson Cavani when the striker’s contract with PSG this summer – but they are also believed to be targeting Lacazette if they miss out on the Uruguayan.

And if they do move for Lacazette, the La Liga side could offer 24-year-old Lemar to Arsenal as part of the deal, according to the Daily Express.

The France international has struggled since moving to Atletico from Monaco for £63million in July 2018.

Indeed Lemar has started just nine LaLiga games this season, and Atletico are believed to be willing to cut their losses.

Tottenham have also been strongly linked with a move for the pacy star, while Sky Sports have previously stated that Wolves are also keen.

Atletico boss Diego Simeone actually opened the door to a January exit when he discussed Lemar’s future earlier this month.

He said: “Facts speak better than words. Lemar is an important player who hasn’t been able to develop his game but who has characteristics that others don’t have.

“Let’s hope he has a good moment when he comes back from injury.

 

“Now, if Lemar can stay or not… we know that agents work in an exemplary way. Clubs work in terms of the needs of the clubs. But, as a footballer, every time he has been available, he’s played a lot more than he hasn’t played.

“His characteristics have always excited me. But he hasn’t been able to live up to expectations.”

Arsenal would clearly love to bring Lemar to The Emirates, but it would be highly unlikely that they would let Lacazette leave as part of any deal – especially given the continued rumours that skipper Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang could look to quit the club if they fail to qualify for the Champions League again.