Latest developments
- Madrid believed to be monitoring Lacazette's situation at Lyon
- Lyon could be forced to sell him amid major financial problems
- Real Madrid preparing a €5 million offer for January transfer
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3.5/5): Fichajes' sensationalisation to be considered
Real Madrid are attempting to use Olympique Lyon's financial difficulties to their advantage in order to recruit French striker Alexandre Lacazette in January.
According to Fichajes, Los Blancos been showing more interest in Lacazette, whose future at Lyon is currently in doubt, giving Real Madrid the chance to act swiftly and sign him.
Since the Spanish publication is notorious for its sensationalistic reporting on stories with little to no basis, Fichajes cannot be regarded as a highly reliable source. However, the story likely has some basis behind it as Real Madrid need a number nine.
Value (5/5): Major steal for Real Madrid as Lyon's Ligue 1 future doubtful
The Fichajes report has suggested that Real Madrid are preparing an offer worth €5 million, and at that price point a striker of Lacazette's ability is a major steal. It is virtually impossible for Los Blancos to sign a better striker for a figure any where close to that.
Lacazette's contract is set to run out next summer and Lyon's financial position may mean that they will have to get as many sales done as possible in January to avoid demotion to Ligue 2.
Suitability (5/5): Madrid's attack lopsided without a striker
Real Madrid have been working to solve their issues in attack with Kylian Mbappe acting as the number nine but have, however, failed to integrate the Frenchman well enough.
As such, Lacazette would easily slot in the striker position when needed and aid Carlo Ancelotti's side gain the upper hand against tougher defences as they try to work out the balance of the squad.
Upgrade? (2/5): A helpful backup for Mbappe
Lacazette would not be an upgrade to the squad Real Madrid currently have, however, the Frenchman would slot in as a very capable backup to what has been a misfiring attack.
Currently, Real Madrid's only backup for the central striker role has been 18-year-old Endrick. However, Ancelotti has not trusted the Brazilian to perform well in the first-team squad, possibly due to his lack of senior experience.
Logic (5/5): A no-brainer for Lacazette and Madrid
Even though Lacazette is 33 years old, Real Madrid find him to be a desirable choice because of his experience and goal-scoring record, particularly in light of their desire for more offensive potency. Plus, for Lacazette, he gets his last hurrah at a big club as age starts to catch up with the former Arsenal forward.
Whisper+ final verdict – 20.5/25
If Real Madrid have even the slightest chance to complete the signing of Lacazette in January, they should seal the deal as this partnership will be hugely beneficial to all the parties involved.
Real Madrid get an experienced backup striker, Lacazette gets a final big move before his career starts to wind down and Lyon get a small but considerable amount of money that can go towards balancing their books to avoid relegation to Ligue 2.
