Arsenal have been handed an injury boost with Alexandre Lacazette set to return to first-team training next week, according to reports.
French striker Lacazette enjoyed a bright start to the 2019-20 season, scoring two goals in his first three appearances, including a crucial strike in Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with rivals Tottenham.
But the 28-year-old suffered an ankle injury during the first north London derby of the season and has not played since, missing seven games in total.
Lacazette is now closing in on a return, however, with ESPN FC saying he could join his team-mates for training as early as next week.
If Lacazette avoids any setbacks, he could make himself available for Arsenal’s trip to Sheffield United on October 21.
Despite Lacazette’s absense, Arsenal are currently third in the Premier League, one point below defending champions Manchester City.
Lacazette has emerged as a key player for the Gunners since signing from Lyon two years ago but was reportedly offered to Zenit in the summer.
Russian agent Dmitry Cheltsov said: ‘I offered Alexandre Lacazette to Zenit. Their sporting director Javier Ribalta said to me: “Are you crazy? His release clause is €68m [£61m].”
‘I told him you can negotiate with Arsenal. I am sure they will be ready to accept something between €50m and €55m [£45m – £49.5m].
‘His salary would be €7-8m [£6.3m – £7.2m] after tax.’
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