Arsenal news: Pundit can’t believe Alexandre Lacazette about to be ‘let go’
Alexandre Lacazette’s Arsenal performances will make calls for a new contract “hard to ignore”, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 30-year-old has “stepped up” to become a “real leader” under Mikel Arteta.
Lacazette played a key role in Arsenal’s 95th-minute winner over Wolves last Thursday (24 February), with their 2-1 victory helping to supercharge their Champions League hopes.
The Frenchman is out of contract at the end of this season along with fellow striker Eddie Nketiah.
According to The Athletic (24 February), Arsenal will not hold contract talks with Lacazette until the end of this campaign.
Whelan suggested Arteta will be reluctant to let the former Lyon man leave this summer.
“He’s got a part to play beyond this summer, for sure,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“He is still putting in these top performances and showing this professionalism despite his contract situation and despite what happened with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
“He has got some real character about him. Arteta must be looking and thinking: ‘How can I let a player like this go.’
“He’s stepped up to be a real leader in this Arsenal side. He’s taken the responsibility and that’s commendable considering all the speculation about his future.
“It will be hard to ignore not only the performances but also the character and attitude he’s shown. He could stay yet.”
Lacazette was made captain of Arsenal in the wake of Aubameyang’s ostracisation late last year.
The Gunners are just two points adrift of fourth-placed Man United with three games in hand.
In other news, pundit slams Arsenal fans amid “incredible” Martin Odegaard verdict.