Arsenal: Thomas Lemar provides more than Riyad Mahrez

Both Thomas Lemar and Riyad Mahrez have been linked to Arsenal recently. If I could pick one, it’s Lemar with no hesitation.

Arsenal are in desperate need of some major signings this summer if they want to compete for the Premier League title next season. Wenger has said he only wants “top,top quality” players and here we have two of them. Thomas Lemar and Riyad Mahrez are two very exciting forwards.

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Even though Lemar is a very talented prospect, there isn’t much heat chasing him. Juventus and Tottenham are keen on the player, but according to Daily Star, he’s interested in a move to Arsenal. We all know how successful French forwards are under Wenger (ask Thierry Henry and co.) and Lemar could be one of those players, especially since he’s only 21-years-old!

On the other hand, we have the 2015-16 PFA Player of the Year in Riyad Mahrez. We know he officially submitted a transfer request a few days ago and now Wenger has confirmed his interest in the Algerian winger. Mahrez is coming off a down year, but the winger has proven he can do it all offensively.

With all of this being introduced, let me tell you how I favor Lemar over Mahrez, using the two important “P’s”:

My first “P” would be potential. Mahrez is 26-years-old, in his prime, and heading into his 30s. He did have a solid year but his performance last season (2 BPL goals) could be a huge factor in signing him.

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However, Lemar is only 21-years-old and what he did last season for Monaco was just immense. In 28 Ligue 1 appearances. Lemar contributed to 9 goals and 10 assists. In the Champions League, he had 2 goals and 4 assists (9 games). To be a 21-year-old forward putting up stats like that says plenty about your potential. Lemar has numerous years ahead of him before he touches the 30 mark and he can only get better.

My second “P” would be price. We know how Wenger loves to bring in players for the right price. Considering how Mahrez was last season, it baffles me as to why he is rated at £40 million. The way Mahrez dropped, I wouldn’t pay more than £10 million to buy him.

Again however, Lemar is rated at only £25 million! His value could rise to about £30 million but that isn’t too concerning. For what Lemar has done this season to a Monaco team that has shocked the world, that is one damn good price for him. A price I would not hesitate to pay.

This isn’t a “P” reason , (or one that is serious), but imagine Mahrez and Lemar in an Arsenal jersey. I immediately give the edge to Lemar due to the fact that Monaco wear red and white, just like our beloved Arsenal!

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Who knows what Wenger is thinking right now, but it better be Lemar over Mahrez!