Will Lacazette convince Alexis Sanchez?

Lacazette could play alongside Alexis Sanchez.

Alexandre Lacazette completed a medical ahead of his £52 million switch from Lyon, and the Gunners will hope the French striker can persuade Alexis Sanchez to stay.

As Arsenal look to break their previous transfer-record to bring in Lacazette, concern over Alexis Sanchez’s future begins to mount again.

While Arsene Wenger must make signings to keep his side competitive if not in Europe in the Premier League, to avoid stars such as Ozil and Sanchez leaving, the arrival of yet another striker could force some other attacking players out of the club. Such is the case of Olivier Giroud, who has offers from West Ham and Everton promising more game time.

Alexis Sanchez has still not revealed whether he will extend his contract at the Emirates, with Manchester City offering a weekly £350,000 salary as well as the prospect of Champions League football. The addition of quality players will surely convince the stars whose place in the starting lineup is not put in jeopardy.

Former Arsenal man Nigel Winterburn spoke on the matter: ‘I think it was obvious to Arsenal fans and to Arsene Wenger that one of those areas to strengthen is the centre forward position’, Winterburn told Sky Sports, ‘I hope the Lacazette deal leaves [Sanchez] at the club. He can play on the left, up front or in the hole. Arsenal cannot afford to bring in Lacazette then two weeks later Sanchez leaves. I am hoping Wenger can persuade him to stay for another season, see what happens with the team then sign a new contract’.

Olivier Giroud has found his opportunities at Arsenal limited, but Winterburn hopes they can also retain the Frenchman: ‘I am hoping Giroud will stay, I still feel he is valuable to the team as well. Arsenal know they need quality to help them challenge for the title’, he said.

With Wenger planning to make a couple more major signings, will the experienced manager be willing to force a player out to please his star?

SOURCE: BESOCCER