Arsenal are reportedly prepared to make an improved bid for the services of Lorient forward Alexis Claude-Maurice amid the glowing interest from various European sides.
The north London side are likely to work on a restricted budget for the summer after the failure to qualify for next season’s Champions League and that may lead to securing potential bargain deals rather than spending big on experienced recruits.
One of the areas in need of strengthening this summer remains the wide attacking department and Get French Football News has revealed that the club are looking into a transfer agreement for Lorient’s Alexis.
The same publication adds that the north London side have already failed with a £6m bid for the 21-year-old and they are prepared to table a fresh package of around £11m to prise the youngster away from the Ligue 2 outfit.
Nonetheless, the bid is still said to be below the club’s £13.3m valuation excluding add-ons, and Unai Emery’s side may have to negotiate further amid interest from the likes of AS Monaco, Borussia Monchengladbach and Lille.
At the age of 21, Alexis appears a promising prospect and he has come through an impressive season with Lorient, where he amassed 14 goals in the French second tier.
Moreover, the Frenchman has played both centrally and on the wings, and that versatility is something which Emery tends to favour when picking new players.
Arsenal have a good association with Lorient after doing business for the services of Matteo Guendouzi last summer and that should somewhat aide them in their quest to pursue Alexis.
