Arsenal are set to face a stiff challenge in signing their top summer target Thomas Lemar, with defending champions Chelsea entering the fray.
The 80+ million star was pursued by Arsenal, but remained at Monaco as the summer window closed. Despite his form dipping post last season, he is still a top target for Wenger.
Now, Chelsea have set their sights at Lemar. They are willing to offer around 70+ million in cash, or a cash+player deal where Michy Batshuayi might go the other way on loan.
Batshyuai has established himself in the hearts of Chelsea fans with his presence on Twitter. But his role on the field has diminished since the arrival of Morata.
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Chelsea are not willing to let him go permanently, and a loan move might not only support Monaco, but be a gift for Michy as well.
The discussion is being driven by Monaco’s former Chelsea director Michael Emenalo who is trying to get the best deal, according to L’Equipe. Willian is reportedly unhappy at Chelsea and looking to leave due to lack of game time.
With the ever present rumour of Hazard leaving, Conte now sees Lemar as a good value addition to his team.
The 22-year old Frenchman joined Monaco for a mere 5 million during the summer of 2015. He grabbed the spotlight with his performances last season, being involved in 30 goals for the French champions scoring 14.
He is nowhere near that this season, grabbing just 1 goal and creating 4 in 16 matches so far.
This move would be another huge blow for Monaco, who were heartlessly raided during the summer.
They are 6 points off the top of the table currently sitting at second, and the sole in-form Falcao may not be enough to pose a serious threat to PSG’s title quest.
