AS Monaco have reportedly informed Arsenal that they will have to shell out £80 million to land Thomas Lemar this summer
According to a report in the Daily Mirror, AS Monaco have slapped an £80 million price tag on Thomas Lemar in order to ward off his suitors. Thus, Arsenal will have to break their transfer record for the second time in this summer’s transfer window in order to secure the services of the French winger.
Lemar was one of the most fundamental figures for Monaco as they romped to a shock Ligue 1 triumph last season by a comfortable eight-point margin over PSG. Leonardo Jardim’s men displayed impeccable flair in their attacking displays over the course of the campaign, with the player forming a key part.
Lemar, thus, amassed a staggering 55 appearances in all competitions last season, with an impressive return of 14 goals and 17 assists to show for his efforts. Needless to say, the youngster has shot to prominence, with a host of top clubs vying for his signature.
Chief among these are Arsenal, with Arsene Wenger believed to be a huge admirer of the player’s talents. The North London club have, therefore, been in hot pursuit of Lemar for several months now in a bid to land him in this summer’s transfer window.
The Gunners are currently in a precarious situation with the future of Alexis Sanchez mired in heavy uncertainty. Manchester City have been heavily linked to the Chilean forward, with Sanchez indicating that he wishes to play in the Champions League next season.
While Arsene Wenger has made it clear on numerous occasions that Arsenal will not sell their talisman this summer, his uncertain position is not ideal. On top of that, with the likes of Theo Walcott, Lucas Perez and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain all linked to summer exits as well, reinforcements are needed irrespective of Sanchez leaving.
Lemar, with his qualities, is the perfect fit in Arsene Wenger’s style of play and the player can be a solution in attack as well as midfield. And at 21, he can prove to be a long-term addition at the Emirates.
Monaco, though, are playing hardball, having already rejected two previous bids from Arsenal. And now, the principality club are set to hold out for £80 million as they attempt to ward off interest in the player.
However, Arsene Wenger is confident that he can be successful in striking a deal for Lemar this summer, and is, thus, set to sanction another bid for the player. It now remains to be seen if Arsenal are able to land their target man in the coming weeks, with the new season approaching fast.
