Arsenal’s Odsonne Edouard interest hints at Lacazette transfer

Alexandre Lacazette has been inconsistent at the best of times since moving to Arsenal from Lyon, with the past two games highlighting his strengths and weaknesses.

Against Slavia Prague, he appeared slow and lethargic before missing a glorious chance when bearing down one-on-one with the keeper. During the game against Sheffield United, however, he was a completely different player, dropping deep effectively before sprinting up to score two well-taken goals. This inconsistency plays into Lacazette’s potential transfer away from Arsenal.

Recent developments from Sam Dean of The Telegraph have revealed that although Leicester seem to be keen on signing Odsonne Edouard in the summer, Arsenal will be also be making a move for him. Lacazette has inflated his transfer value with his goals but it seems the higher ups at the club will be looking to move him on in a few months’ time.

Interest in Edouard and Lacazette’s potential sale shows the club is moving in the right direction. Replacing an aging, inconsistent player with a young, hungry striker who better fits Mikel Arteta’s ideal center forward is a smart move on all accounts. The club hierarchy have had more blunders than successes in recent years resulting in overpaid and underperforming stars. Edouard would come in at a steal at £15m-£20m.

Arsenal’s Odsonne Edouard interest hints at Alexandre Lacazette decision in summer transfer window

This news, however, would definitely be a success. Kieran Tierney’s arrival from Celtic has revolutionized the way Arsenal play. The quality of the Scottish clubs may not be up to Premier League standards but given Tierney’s success and Odsonne Edouard‘s ruthlessness in front of goal, supporters should not be worried about the transfer not panning out.

Additionally, Edouard fits the mold of what Arteta wants. The French forward provides a focal point in attack. His height places him closer to ex-Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud than Lacazette but he boasts far more athleticism and finishing ability than either player.

Arteta’s desire for his players to press from the front and force the opposition into mistakes high up the pitch is clear to see. It hasn’t always come off this season as Lacazette often picks up pockets in midfield but cannot sprint back up the field in time to harry defenders. Edouard would be able to provide a passing option while pressuring the opposition.

The age profile is also key to this transfer as Edouard is only 23 years old. He is young enough to replace Lacazette while still being able to grow and develop to fit the manager’s demands and style of play. More importantly, he is a few years older than Gabriel Martinelli, ensuring that the Brazilian’s own development will not be stunted.

Lacazette has scored some crucial goals for Arsenal this season. The Gunners will, or at least should, be looking to move him on, especially with such an attractive alternative waiting in the wings.