Arsenal and Juventus could swap Alexandre Lacazette and Federico Bernardeschi this summer, according to reports in Italy.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is desperate to change the landscape of the team that has failed to qualify for the Champions League for the fourth year running.
Aside from much-required reinforcements, Arteta is also keen to offload some of his first-team fringe players to raise funds for his spending campaign.
Alexandre Lacazette is on the of those who could make way for the new signings after enduring an underwhelming season in London.
The 29-year-old French star arrived from Lyon in 2017 for £54million but has been struggling with form and consistency over the past two years.
Juventus are one of the sides said to be willing to offer Lacazette an escape route from the Emirates.
Andrea Pirlo has a bunch of out-of-favor players in his ranks, including left-footed forward Federico Bernardeschi.
Indeed, the 26-year-old could be holding the key to unlocking Lacazette’s transfer to the Allianz Stadium this summer.
Arteta is reportedly ready to embrace the prospect of swapping his second-choice striker for a prolific attacking midfielder.
Meanwhile, reigning Serie A champions have identified the Wolverhampton goal-machine Raul Jimenez as a key target this summer.
But, the Turin giants have suffered a major setback in their pursuit, given the 29-year-old’s huge release clause.
Italian journalist Nicolo Schira has offered his view of the possible movements in the market.
Schira believes Arsenal entertain the idea of swapping Lacazette for Bernardeschi, who very much suits Arteta’s game style.
He also adds that Jimenez features Juventus’ wish-list close to the top, but confirming the ‘Bianconeri’ are also looking at Lacazette.
“Raul #Jimenez is still the main target of #Juventus as a striker,” Schira wrote on Twitter.
“Paratici has also asked info to #Arsenal on Alexandre #Lacazette, who could leave this summer.
“Gunners are looking Federico #Bernardeschi and could be possible a swap, even if Berna prefers stay at Juve. #transfers.”
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