Football

Arsenal star Lacazette responds to links with Thomas Partey transfer deal


Alexandre Lacazette has given his verdict on rumours he could be part of a swap deal with Thomas Partey – and the Arsenal striker is not happy.

Lacazette’s future has been the subject of much speculation this summer, with manager Mikel Arteta needing to offload players so he can sign top targets such as Partey and Houssem Aouar.

There has been talk Lacazette could be used in a part-exchange deal to help the Gunners land Partey, with Atletico Madrid insisting they won’t sell the midfielder unless his £45m release clause is triggered.

The French forward could also be sold to help raise some of the funds required to sign Aouar, with Lyon valuing their midfield star at £54m.

Lacazette has two years remaining on his Arsenal deal and this summer would be a prime time to sell him before his transfer value begins to diminish.

Alexandre Lacazette is believed to be on the radar of Atletico Madrid and Juventus

But the 29-year-old insisted his future is at the Emirates, reacting angrily when asked about reports of a swap deal involving himself and Partey.

“If this is true, no, it does not please me,” Lacazette said in an interview with L’Equipe, cited by Metro.

“But what matters is the choice of the coach [Mikel Arteta] and his confidence.

“He’s the one who makes the team, not the managers upstairs in the offices, and I know I have his confidence.

“I’m at Arsenal, I signed a five-year contract to progress and win titles. I have two years left. I am determined to stay.”

Eddie Nketiah’s emergence has put increased pressure on Lacazette, who has also been linked with interest from Juventus.

But Arteta says the France international wants to stay and fight for his place.

Lacazette is likely to be in the squad for Arsenal’s opening day trip to Craven Cottage to face newly-promoted Fulham on Saturday.

Should Arsenal cash in on Lacazette? Have your say in the comments below

Thomas Partey is wanted by Arsenal, leading to speculation Lacazette could be used in a swap deal

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Arsenal will be without seven other stars for the clash, with David Luiz facing up to six weeks out after he aggravated a neck injury in training.

New signings Gabriel Magalhaes or William Saliba could be thrown in at the deep end with the Gunners light of options at the back.

Rob Holding has remained at the club after Arsenal cancelled his proposed loan to Newcastle, while Sokratis, Shkodran Mustafi, Pablo Mari and Calum Chambers are all on the injury list.

Arsenal will be without youngsters Gabriel Martinelli and Emile Smith-Rowe.

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