According to The Sun, Arsenal are open to offering Alexandre Lacazette in a deal to sign Thomas Partey. The Atletico Madrid star has been identified as a top target for Mikel Arteta, and while they are low on funds, the Gunners are aware of Atleti’s need for a new striker. As a result, they are willing to sacrifice Lacazette in a part-exchange deal to sign Partey. But, is it the right move by the club?
What could Arsenal lose with Lacazette?
It is fair to say that Lacazette has not been able to make the desired impact since joining from Olympique Lyonnais. This season, in particular, the Frenchman has struggled to provide the productivity in the final third, despite being offered a lot of first-team chances. In fact, he has scored only seven goals so far this campaign, only two of which were scored in this calendar year.
That being said, Lacazette’s potential departure could put Arsenal in grave danger. The Gunners are already in the risk of losing star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who has been linked with a move away from Emirates this season. His departure will create a massive hole in the offensive department.
With Lacazette being the only other option, Arteta will be devoid of reliable options in the number nine slot unless they find a suitable replacement for the Frenchman. And that could be a challenging job given the competitive nature of the market.
What could Arsenal gain with Partey?
Arsenal will require midfield reinforcements in the summer, especially following the return of Dani Ceballos to Real Madrid. It will leave Arteta will only three other viable options in the middle of the park in Lucas Torreira, Matteo Guendouzi and Granit Xhaka.
Xhaka will presumably play a key role in the Arsenal first-team next season. But, the Swiss international has lacked a reliable partner, and that’s where Partey could come in handy.
The Atletico Madrid midfielder, hardened by the experience of playing under Diego Simeone, is a physically astute operator. He can clear out loose balls in midfield and cut out passes thanks to his ability to read the game. His aggression and style of play could complement Xhaka’s more pass-oriented style, thus adding another dimension to the Arsenal midfield.
Therefore, sacrificing Lacazette in favour of signing Partey might not be a bad option as far as the Gunners are concerned. However, they will need to be swift in search of an attacking replacement as Arteta looks to usher in a new era at Emirates next season.
