Arsenal have reignited their interest in Lyon striker and have made contact to sign the forward, according to reports in French outlet L’Equipe.
The 23-year-old joined Lyon in the summer of 2018 after a successful spell in Scotland with Celtic. The striker’s time in France has been very good as he has solidified his reputation as a consistent goal scorer that can be relied upon.
The forward has scored 22 goals this season and with the French league season prematurely ending due to the Coronavirus epidemic, he could be on his way out of France.
The report states that the North London club have already made contact to sign Dembele, as there is a chance that current captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang could leave the club this summer.
It further states that though the forward has been linked with Manchester United and Chelsea, it is Arsenal who have made contact with him. Lyon are reportedly prepared to cash in on the forward who is valued at around £60m by his club.
One of the major reasons for Arsenal’s interest in Dembele is due to the fact that Aubameyang’s contract is up soon and he has been attracting interest from clubs such as Barcelona and Real Madrid. Since he’s not agreed on a new deal yet, the Gunners are looking at other options.
Dembele has spent time in the UK with Fulham and Celtic so he will be familiar with the rigors of the game there. And it is said that he would be open to a move but if Arsenal want their man, they will have to cough up a huge fee.
Another factor that could determine this deal is the financial impact of the Coronavirus epidemic as that might reduce the asking price. If the Frenchman was to join the Gunners, he will join former Lyon striker Alexandre Lacazette. His pace and calmness in front of goal are qualities that will surely appeal to manager Mikel Arteta.
As of now, there is no clarity as to when the transfer window will open but once it does, we will know more about the future of Dembele. If that happens to be at the Emirates, fans can expect a strong and skillful forward with an eye for goal.
