Reports in the media suggest Arsenal are the favourites to sign the Atletico Madrid midfielder.
Arsenal leads the race to sign Atletico Madrid’s struggling 24-year-old midfielder Thomas Lemar, according to Spanish news outlet Marca. The French international has struggled to earn playing minutes at the club. Coach Diego Simeone had even admitted the player had not been ‘able to live up to expectations’.
It has also been reported that Atletico Madrid are looking to sign a new striker and would be willing to let the French midfielder go. Lemar, a versatile player, joined Atletico Madrid from Ligue One side AS Monaco in 2018. The former Caen midfielder has so far featured in more than 60 games for Simeone’s side. However, the player has struggled to shine for Los Rojiblancos.
Simeone had recently said, “Facts speak better than words. Lemar is an important player who hasn’t been able to develop his game but who has characteristics that others don’t have. Let’s hope he has a good moment when he comes back from injury,”
“Now if Lemar can stay or not, we know that agents work in an exemplary way. Clubs work in function for their needs. He’s played a lot more than he hasn’t played. ‘His characteristics have always excited me. But he hasn’t been able to live up to expectations.” the coach said.
Several other sides are also reportedly interested in acquiring the services of Lemar, who was part of the France squad that won the FIFA World Cup in 2018. However, the North London side Arsenal seems to be the favorites. The Gunner had previously targeted the player in 2017 but a deal did not materialize.
Atletico Madrid linked with a move for Edinson Cavani
Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid have been linked with a move for Paris Saint-German attacker Edinson Cavani. A few other clubs from the Premier League have also been linked with the Uruguay international, which includes Frank Lampard’s Chelsea. Nevertheless, a move to the Spanish capital, to join Atletico Madrid, is more likely to happen. The 32-year-old’s father has even suggested ‘there is a strong chance that he will go to Atletico.’
If Arsenal signs Thomas Lemar, it will be a boost to both the club and the player. Going by Arsenal’s performance, they certainly need more players in the attacking department and Lemar could be one to add strength.
