If recent reports are to be believed, AS Monaco’s Thomas Lemar is a target for numerous top clubs in Europe that includes the likes of Barcelona and Manchester City apart from Arsenal. Of course, the Gunners have been heavily linked with a move for the player for over a month now with the Ligue1 side rejecting as many as three bids for the player.
And it becomes more frustrating when there comes in more competitors with more financial strengths to outbid the oldest suitor. However, at just 21 and World Cup coming up next year, money isn’t the only lure Lemar is looking for as regular chances remain at the top of his list.
The wide player, who excels equally from the midfield as well as from the flanks, had scored nine goals and 11 assists last season turning many heads. However, he has seen just five national caps so far and improving upon that remains of primary importance to him.
While Arsenal have reportedly agreed to Monaco’s £50 million asking price, the side are now willing to wait for Barcelona who are heavy with cash now with Neymar’s sale and can cough up more in their desperation. Here is how Lemar will fit in the clubs-
Manchester City- The Sky Blues have quite understandably been on a spending spree this summer following their poor end to last season. Pep Guardiola has spent over £200 million this season to get in some of the most popular players from across the world in Bernardo Silva, Benjamin Mendy, Kyle Walker, Danilo and Ederson.
And Lemar is expected to be just another name on their long list. With the likes of David Silva, Kevin De Bruyne, Silva and Leroy Sane- all capable of playing in his position, Lemar will hardly get a chance to adapt to the league in the first place.
Arsenal- The North London giants are definitely the most likely destination for Lemar. But, honestly, his place at the Emirates is still quite undefined. If Arsene Wenger is adamant in holding onto Alexis Sanchez this summer then he has sufficient options to play in the midfield as well as on the flanks and Lemar would be reduced to a bench player reserved for EFL Cup and Europa League group stage games.
Barcelona- The Catalans, on the other hand, looks the perfect destination for Lemar at present given their vacant position in the attacking third and transition stage of their midfield. Neymar’s absence has led Barcelona to push the panic button and with overflowing cash in hand, they are chasing every other big name across Europe.
Lemar should really grab this chance as he could be a long-term replacement for Andres Iniesta too and alongside the likes of emerging youths like Andre Gomes and Dennis Suarez, could be their next star.
