Report: Arsenal considering u-turn on deal for £180,000-a-week star but there’s a problem

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Arsenal are refusing to close the door on Alexandre Lacazette winning a new deal at the club, according to The Athletic.

The Frenchman has been with the Gunners for five years but his contract will expire next summer.

There has been speculation in the past over his future and January will represent a final chance for Arsenal to cash in on Lacazette.

In a fresh development though, it’s been claimed that Mikel Arteta is considering an extension to his deal.

There could be a sizeable stumbling block, however.

Lacazette, 30, is keen to secure his long-term future. Arsenal don’t want to be locked into a sizeable contract with a player in his thirties and are only considering a short-term solution.

That is likely to leave the ball firmly in the court of the striker who has 16 caps for France.

Letting him leave would perhaps seem strange.

He was in superb form last season, scoring 17 goals as the club’s top scorer during the campaign.

Lacazette has scored three times for the Gunners this time around but he did start the season on the sidelines through illness.

From the new year, the Arsenal man will be able to discuss terms with overseas clubs should he wish to do so.

Influential: Arsenal would be wise to keep Lacazette

It’s not just what he does on the pitch that should tempt Arsenal into a new deal for the striker.

The £182,000-a-week player would be a great role model for the younger players in the dressing room – and he is still scoring goals.

Arsenal are right to try and avoid a long-term contract, however.

The last thing they need is a player in his thirties tied to a long-term deal stagnating on the wage budget.

Another year could be perfect for all parties.