Arsenal news: This could be real reason for Alexandre Lacazette not signing new contract
Arsenal hitman Alexandre Lacazette may be holding out on signing a new contract until the outcome of the quest for Champions League football is confirmed, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed a top-four finish would boost the 30-year-old’s “bargaining position”.
Lacazette continued his fine run of form with two assists as Arsenal produced a scintillating attacking display during their 3-2 win over Watford on Sunday (6 March).
The former Lyon striker, who has notched five goals and eight assists this term, is out of contract at the end of this season.
Speaking after the win over the Hornets and quoted by the Daily Express, manager Mikel Arteta claimed he will “sit down” with the Frenchman “at the end of the season” to discuss a potential extension.
Whelan claimed the Spaniard would be “silly” not to offer Lacazette new terms.
“I think because it’s run down to a certain point, he’ll be holding out for Champions League football,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“You’ve got to take into consideration his age as well.
“This could be his last chance to secure a big contract. If he can help Arsenal to that top-four finish, then his bargaining position looks a lot better.
“It’ll be a difficult conversation to have, I imagine. But what he’s shown is that real leadership skill.
“Despite the fact he’s not got left on his contract and his future is up in the air – he’s still putting in a real shift and putting his body on the line. It’s commendable.
“We see so many players down tools at this point in their contract, but he’s still giving 100% to the cause.
“He’s leading by example. Right now you’d be silly not to give him a new contract with the way he’s playing.”
In other news, pundit cites Thierry Henry after “brilliant” thing he spotted during Watford clash.