Arsenal have shown considerable interest in signing Lyon star Alexandre Lacazette, but the Gunners are set to face competition from Liverpool. Will Jurgen Klopp hijack Arsenal's target?
That may be possible only if Christian Benteke is sold to Crystal Palace, reported Le 10 Sport. And with Arsenal and Liverpool both in the mix for France star, the competition for the all-important signature will only get much more interesting.
Arsenal are in the market for a top-notch striker, and Lacazette could be a perfect player for their manager, Arsene Wenger, who failed to land Leicester City goal-machine, Jamie Vardy, with the England international signing a new contract with the champions. Hence, Wenger is looking to add depth and quality, like Klopp, who could also sell a few more players before the transfer window is shut.
It is no rocket science to understand that Benteke is on his way out after failing to impress Klopp. However, Benteke does not fit the bill for Klopp, who always loves to have players in his squad, who has pace, and the Liverpool's number nine's major strength is in the air.
There is no doubt about the class Benteke possesses, and could be a perfect fit for teams, which plays a strong physical team like Crystal Palace and West Ham.
The Hammers were said to have been interested in the player's signature, but Palace, who had their first bid of 25 million pound rejected, are said to have returned with a better offer of 31.5 million pound. It could be well suited for both the parties to agree to the deal, which will allow more time for Klopp to look at other options, including Lacazette, who has a £34.2 million release clause.
One needs to analyse if there is a serious need for Liverpool to add another striker, and at that price after having already signed Sadio Mane for around £30 million. They already have Divock Origi, Daniel Sturridge, Danny Ings, who are all out-and-out striker, with their latest recruit, Sadio Mane capable of playing as the false number nine like Roberto Firmino.
But then, a player like Lacazette will only strengthen their team, and help them increase their chances of playing Champions League football.
