We are again linked with a move for Argentine striker Mauro Icardi after earlier reports indicated that Inter president Erick Thohir would entertain a bid of around £50 million.
According to Daily Star, Arsenal are planning a £50 million bid for Inter striker Mauro Icardi if they fail to sign Alexandre Lacazette.
The Argentine had previously been expected to move to Napoli, should he leave the Nerazzurri, following the departure of Gonzalo Higuain to Juventus, with the Partenopei repeatedly having to increase their offer.
In case of Alexander Lacazette, the Gunners were knocked back by Lyon and could now turn to the Inter star to give Olivier Giroud competition. Arsene Wenger had a £29.3million offer for Lacazette turned down last week and could yet go back for the £42m-rated Frenchman.
But if the Arsenal boss decides not to make another offer, as Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has hinted, then a move for Icardi would be next up.
Icardi was close to leaving earlier on this summer after comments made by his wife caused tension within the Inter faithful. It now seems if the Lacazette bid falls through, he may be the ultimate striker for Arsenal.
The Indonesian businessman was double minded as he was confused whether to keep Icardi, who has scored 52 goals in all competitions, since signing from Sampdoria in 2013.
Inter President Erick Thohir said,
“All of us and Inter are hoping that figure goes above 60 million euros.
Inter will be here for hundreds of years but it is made of individuals who change each year.
We are hoping to receive a better offer.
Mauro is an important player for us and our captain. However, players come and go.”
Wenger admitted he needs a new hitman up front. Speaking after Arsenal’s 2-1 win over MLS All-Stars, he said:
“I have, at the moment, not too many attacking options of experienced players.
Let’s not forget that we still have a few players at home and a few players who didn’t play today like [Santi Cazorla]. And of course we have [Mesut Ozil] and [Aaron Ramsey] at home. And [Olivier Giroud] is not here.
So we have options, but we still look outside to find one more.”
With Mauro Icardi’s wife Wanda Nara wanting for a move and Inter president telling their price, it would be very interesting to know what Arsene Wenger’s next move will be.
After falling short once again last season, Arsene Wenger is determined to add attacking quality to ensure they last the distance, and Icardi’s ruthless streak in front of goal could fit the bill.
Pressure is growing for Arsene Wenger to sign a new striker after missing out on Gonzalo Higuain, Jamie Vardy and maybe Alexandre Lacazette.
