Arsenal ‘would welcome’ swapping Lacazette for Atletico Madrid flop Lemar in transfer despite 13-month goal drought

ARSENAL are interested in swapping Alexandre Lacazette for Atletico Madrid flop Thomas Lemar, according to reports.

The Gunners chased Lemar during his Monaco days, but lost out on the French international's signature when he joined Atleti in 2018 for around £62million.

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But two years on Lemar, 24, finds himself out of favour at the Wanda Metropolitano and could yet end up at the Emirates.

According to , Atletico Madrid are willing to use Lemar as a bargaining tool in order to land top target Lacazette.

Diego Simeone and Atleti chiefs believe that the former Lyon forward should be in his peak years at the age of 28 and would offer a new dimension to their attack.

And with both sides lacking funds because of the coronavirus pandemic, a swap deal without cash involved could benefit both parties.

Lacazette had a good start at the Emirates, netting 36 goals over his first two seasons in North London.

But its been a stop-start campaign this time out and he has struggled for form since an ankle injury in September.

He also appears to be keen on a transfer and has just two years left on his Gunners contract - with no indication that he'll extend.

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Despite this, he has managed nine goals this season, which is more than can be said for Lemar.

The winger was outstanding for Monaco and earned his way into France's victorious World Cup-winning squad in 2018.

But it's been a barren campaign this time out, failing to register a single goal or assist in 24 appearances.

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Given that he is still only 24, however, Arsenal feel that there is still a talented player in there for boss Mikel Arteta to nurture.

Another player that Atletico could consider trading this summer is former Chelsea striker Diego Costa.

Now 31, Costa has only a year left on his contract and possesses little re-sale value - but could provide a decent bargaining chip as Atleti try and secure further targets.