Mikel Arteta says Arsenal will begin contract talks with Alexandre Lacazette ‘soon’ to end rumours of a potential exit.
Earlier this week, reports emerged stating that the striker could be sold this summer.
The Gunners were said to be open to selling Lacazette should they receive the correct bid.
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Arsenal boss Arteta has now responded to those rumours.
He said (via Daily Mail): “He’s got a contract with us. He played really well the other week. It’s exactly what we demand him to do.
“I’m really happy with him and the discussions about his contract will happen soon. We will see what happens.”
Lacazette now looks set to stay at the Emirates beyond his current contract.
That deal expires in June 2022.
If the player signs a long-term contract extension then he could see out his career in North London.
Lacazette has made 157 appearances for the Gunners since joining from Lyon in July 2017.
During that time, he’s bagged 59 goals which includes 11 this term.
The news will come as a major blow to the European sides that were interested in Lacazette.
Atletico Madrid, Roma and Monaco were all thought to be vying for his signature.
They will all now have to look at attacking alternatives.
Lacazette has been impressive in recent weeks despite the transfer speculation.
He captained Arsenal in their match against Leicester City on Sunday, scoring a goal as they ran out 3-1 winners.
Lacazette registered a goal and an assist in January against Southampton, showing that he can still provide for Arsenal.
The player isn’t the only man at Arsenal to be linked with an exit.
Manager Arteta is thought to be wanted by Barcelona, should they sack Ronald Koeman.
Responding to the rumours, Arteta said: “There is always going to be speculation when there are elections in Barcelona.
“Obviously I was raised there as a player and there is always going to be links. But I am fully focused to the job that I have to do here.”
Arsenal’s next match is against Burnley on Saturday at 12:30.
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