Aulas says he hopes to sign Lacazette from Arsenal this summer

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Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has confirmed that the club plan to try and sign Alexandre Lacazette when his Arsenal contract expires in the summer – in comments reported by Fabrizio Romano.

Lacazette is one of only two natural strikers who remain on the books at the Emirates. However, there remains a large question mark hanging over his future with the Gunners.

His contract is up at the end of the season. And it seems ominous that Arsenal have let his deal reach this stage.

Reports this week claimed that Lyon attempted to sign Lacazette in January. And they are already in contact over a summer move for the 30-year-old.

And Aulas has now confirmed Lyon’s stance. He suggested that the Ligue 1 side are indeed interested in signing Lacazette from Arsenal…

Aubameyang saga unlikely to help Lacazette secure longer Arsenal deal

Both Arsenal and Lacazette are reportedly open to agreeing a new contract. However, the two sides are currently locked in a stalemate.

The Athletic reports that the Gunners would prefer to hand the Frenchman a shorter deal.

Lacazette meanwhile, is keen to secure a longer contract. And thus, something will have to give.

What may not help Lacazette is the problems Arsenal have experienced since handing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang a new contract.

At the time, agreeing a new deal with the striker looked to be a masterstroke. It seemed to be a huge win for Mikel Arteta. However, Aubameyang has now left the club on a free transfer.

That situation came after Arsenal were already made to rue handing the likes of Mesut Ozil and Willian lucrative terms ahead of the twilights of their careers.

Lacazette was described as ‘outstanding‘ by Jamie Carragher earlier this season. But getting a longer deal looks unlikely at this stage. And thus, the interest from Lyon may well appeal to the striker.