Arsenal’s £45million move for Thomas Lemar is a statement of intent rather than insurance for Alexis Sanchez
Gunners are closing in on a stunning deal for the Monaco star which shows ambition and future planning
ARSENE WENGER'S pursuit of Thomas Lemar shouldn’t worry Arsenal fans - he’s NOT a replacement for Alexis Sanchez.
The Gunners have bid multiple times for the young Frenchman, a move seen by many supporters as an attempt to replace Sanchez before he is sold.
And fans can of course be forgiven for thinking that way, as in years gone by they have seen the North London outfit sell a number of their best players to both domestic rivals and abroad.
But in this instance, Arsenal’s £45million pursuit of France international Lemar is by no means an insurance policy for the sale of Sanchez.
It is more a statement of intent, with a hint of future planning.
Comparisons have been drawn between Chile’s record goalscorer and the Monaco star.
Both are quick, nimble, play on the left side and have the ability to dribble well with the ball.
But Arsenal are aiming to sign the 21-year-old from Guadeloupe for much more than his prowess on the left, as he is seen as a versatile option across the midfield, and a potential heir to Santi Cazorla’s throne in the centre.
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It is, however, fair to say that there is an element of future planning with this move, as the Gunners go into the season with neither Mesut Ozil nor Sanchez tied into new deals.
The club has made it crystal clear that both will stay put for the upcoming season, and remain confident they WILL eventually sign new deals.
But they also know there is a chance that one of the two may not put pen to paper, leaving them free to agree moves away from England in the new year.
So by moving for Lemar now, it enables Arsenal to capture the player at a price which will be significantly lower than what he will cost in 12 months, if indeed he continues on his current trajectory.
Lemar scored 14 goals and made as many assists in all competitions last term.
As for the move itself – there is a feeling that Arsenal missed an opportunity to get the deal done quickly back in June.
The player held talks and was keen to come, but Arsenal’s bid was not seen as enough for the talented winger.
Since then Monaco have sold a further two first-team players - Tiemoue Bakayoko and Benjamin Mendy - meaning the chances of Lemar moving from the French outfit have reduced.
However, Arsenal still remain confident that the player wants to come, and a deal will be done before the close of the window.
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