Report: Arsenal ‘the likely destination’ for French star

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Spanish newspaper Marca have claimed that Arsenal are ‘the likely destination’ for Atletico Madrid winger Thomas Lemar this month, as the Frenchman looks to end his nightmare at the La Liga side under Diego Simeone.

Lemar, 24, was linked with Arsenal earlier in the window but nothing came of the reported interest – until the latest report from Marca, which very much suggests a move is still on. Atletico are keen to sell Lemar, in order to fund a move for Edinson Cavani.

French outlet Foot Mercato also claimed that Tottenham were keen, but it seems Spurs are more focused on signing a striker. Lemar, who cost Atletico a whopping £60million (Marca) in the summer of 2018 – but he has scored just three goals since.

Indeed, only six assists have come in 64 appearances for Atleti – something which has not impressed Simeone. Now, all signs point to Arsenal with just a week remaining in the January transfer window – The Gunners are at the ‘front of the queue’.

TBR’s view – Do Arsenal need Lemar?

The Gunners boast Nicolas Pepe on one wing and when everyone is fit, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang normally plays from the left. However, he is naturally a striker and another winger could be a target for The Gunners.

It is slightly harsh on Reiss Nelson and Bukayo Saka, but the Gunners could do with another experienced winger to start ahead of the duo – allowing Nelson and Saka to learn from him. Whether Lemar is that man, though, is another question.