Report claims Juventus could include one of four players in deal for Arsenal star

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Italian website CalcioMercato have claimed that Juventus are still interested in signing Alexandre Lacazette – and could include one of four out-of-favour Juve players in a deal to land the French striker.

Lacazette, 29, has endured an indifferent season at Arsenal and could leave the club in the coming weeks. Juventus have been strongly linked with talks said to have taken place, as Andrea Pirlo looks to make a mark as manager.

The report states that while Arsenal are willing to accept fees between £27.5million and £31million for the France international, Serie A champions Juventus may tempt Arsenal into a swap deal by offering one of four players.

Attacking midfielders Douglas Costa and Federico Bernadeschi have been touted, as have defenders Daniele Rugani – who has been linked to Arsenal in the past – and Cristian Romero, who has impressed on loan at Genoa.

TBR’s view – What should Arsenal do?

Cashing in on Lacazette is a wise move. One of the club’s highest earners, getting rid of Lacazette would free up plenty on the wage bill and they already have replacements in the likes of Gabriel Martinelli and Eddie Nketiah.

But should they accept cash, or bring in one of the four aforementioned Juve players? Costa is 30 in September, and would be on astronomical wages. Romero is still unproven and at 22, has only done well on loan at Genoa.

The Gunners need a centre-back and if they cannot sign Gabriel, Rugani should be considered. But it is Bernadeschi that would offer the best swap – given he can play anywhere in midfield and is experienced bu just 26.

If the Gunners decide to consider one of the four players, Bernadeschi should get the nod – even ahead of £35million (BBC) signing Costa.