Arsenal have been handed a boost in their pursuit of Lyon striker Alexandre Lacazette after Juventus were left doubting the 22 year-old’s capabilities.
Juve were unconvinced by the France international’s performance during their Europa League tie, where Lyon lost 1-0.
In fine goal-scoring form, with 14 league goals, Lacazette has attracted wide-spread interest from across Europe, with Arsenal and Inter Milan believed to be leading the chase for his signature.
Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has made his intention to strengthen his strike department clear, with reports surfacing of interest in Lille forward Saloman Kalou and Real Madrid’s Alvaro Morata.
However, Wenger will face stiff competition to acquire the 22 year-old with Premier League rivals Liverpool, Tottenham and Newcastle previously expressing an interest.
Lacazette claimed to have snubbed an offer from Everton last summer in a recent interview with French media. He told Telefoot: “Everton? They wanted me but I did not want to leave. ”
“For now I am very happy here and there is no reason for me to leave. I didn’t want to move.”
According to Italian publication II Mattino, Napoli are also monitoring the young attacker.
The twice-capped France international admitted his desire to secure a switch to a “big club” and is intrigued by the prospect of a move abroad.
“Would I like to play for Juventus? I’d be a liar if I said no,” he is quoted as saying by Sky Sports.
“I’m tempted to try and experience abroad at a big club. And Juventus are one of the greatest clubs in Europe.
“Are Arsenal and Liverpool interested in me? I repeat that an experience in another major championship fascinates me. But for now I just think of doing well for Lyon, the club where I have grown up.
“My contract expires in 2016, so we must see what the president [Jean-Michel] Aulas will say and decide.”
Lyon have struggled to reach the heights of season’s past and are set to miss out completely on European football next season.
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