MY ACCOUNT
Arsenal would be making a huge mistake if they let Alexandre Lacazette walk away this summer, claims Gunners legend Ian Wright.
The Frenchman — out of contract at the end of the season — took the armband after Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s departure and has led a top-four push.
And ahead of Leicester’s visit on Sunday, Wrighty is urging Emirates chiefs to extend the 30-year-old’s stay after another stellar performance in the win over Watford.
He told the Wrighty’s House podcast: “His position is vitally important to everything we do, because look at those two assists and unless we get that person [in as a replacement], you think to yourself, ‘Maybe we could give Laca another year or two’.
“I think Laca has got to stay around. You can see with his little back flick, his little assist, man is feeling the vibe.”
Lacazette set up Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli either side of the break in a 3-2 thriller against the Hornets on Sunday.
And the 16-cap French international has definitely caught Mikel Arteta’s eye since taking over as captain.
The Gunners coach said: “I think he’s had really good moments in terms of goalscoring records, probably better than what he’s doing right now.
“But for what we ask of him and for what I ask of him and the contribution that I need from him, I think he’s doing really, really well.
“He behaves like someone who wants to stay with us. I can only praise him and try to help him as much as possible.”
Despite Arteta’s praise, the two parties have failed to reach an agreement over an extension and time is running out if the Gunners wish to strike a deal.
Boyhood club Lyon are among the interested teams and L’Equipe report that talks have already begun over a free transfer.
