Arsenal: Realism must reignite Riyad Mahrez interest

Riyad Mahrez is reportedly holding out for a move to Arsenal, rejecting the advances of Roma. Arsene Wenger, though, seems more intent on trying to complete an increasingly unlikely deal for Thomas Lemar. There comes a time where realism must take the wheel. That time could soon be coming.

After securing the club-record addition of Alexandre Lacazette to provide Arsenal with a lethal centre-forward who comes alive in the penalty area, scores goals, causes problems and creates chances, Arsene Wenger is seemingly still not happy with the attacking options at his disposal.

As soon as the signing was announced, reports surfaced that Wenger was intent on furthering his attacking recruitment, with several different players mentioned as possible targets. The most prominent, and perhaps preferred, was Monaco winger Thomas Lemar.

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Since the completed Lacazette addition, Arsenal have had three separate bids rejected for Lemar, with Monaco taking a no-sale stance thanks to the exodus of talent that has laid their squad bare, including the Premier League departures of Bernardo Silva, Tiemoue Bakayoko and Benjamin Mendy. Reading between the lines a little, it seems that the only way a deal can be done is if Arsenal make an offer that Monaco simply cannot refuse.

Lemar, at just 21 years of age, would be an excellent addition. He is quick, intelligent, creative and technically sound. He suits Wenger’s attacking, possession-based style. He is tidy with the ball at his feet and incisive in the final third. But, barring a ridiculous offer, he is also unavailable. And that is an important fact to note.

There comes a point where compromise is best. In regards to bolstering their attacking options, something that does need to be done between now and the beginning of the season. For the Gunners, that time has come.

Thankfully, there are still alternatives available. The most promising of these is undoubtedly Leicester City winger Riyad Mahrez, who has publicly revealed his desire to leave the club after enjoying a year in the Champions League, and has reportedly spurned the chance to sign for Roma in the hope that he can still secure his dream move to North London.

Realism must begin to take the wheel. Ultimately, there is a need for a direct, pacy, troubling winger, who can commit defenders to challenges, provide a threat in behind and cause problems, pulling the opposing defence out of shape. Lemar may be the best option to fulfil that role. But if signing him is not possible, then a contingency plan must be put into place and then implemented.

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Mahrez is a very able contingency plan. The time is coming where it must be executed, even if Wenger would rather wait in hope for Lemar to become available.

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