With the summer transfer window quickly approaching, one of the most in-demand players in Europe will be Lyon and France striker Alexandre Lacazette.
The sprightly forward has been on the collective radar for a number of seasons but has catapulted himself to the next level in 2014-15 with superb feats of goalscoring in Ligue 1.
As such, a host of Premier League clubs have been linked with a move for him at the end of the current campaign, including Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham.
But, with these three heavyweights of English football potentially set to move for Lacazette, who needs him more?
Liverpool
Brendan Rodgers has admitted that his side have not been as clinical in the final third this season, with Luis Suarez’s departure and injury to Daniel Sturridge blunting the Reds as an attacking force.
The Merseysiders look almost certain to sign a centre forward this summer as a result, with Lacazette an excellent option for them.
Rodgers prefers young, technically able and mobile players, with the France international firmly fitting the bill.
His pace offers a threat in-behind opposition defences, while his partnerships with the likes of Philippe Coutinho and Raheem Sterling would be an ominous proposition.
Man United
United have announced the first of what is expected to be a glut of summer signings, with Memphis Depay set for a switch to Old Trafford.
Despite the Dutch starlet’s arrival, the Red Devils are expected to still be in the market for a new centre forward to bolster Louis van Gaal’s options.
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With Radamel Falcao failing this season and Robin van Persie getting older, an injection of youth will surely reinvigorate the side.
A partnership with Wayne Rooney would be an enticing prospect, but is remains to be seen whether Lacazette is a big enough name for United.
Tottenham
The North Londoners have been overly dependent on homegrown hero Harry Kane for goals this season, with back-up options to the England international non-existent.
As such, Spurs are likely to bolster their ranks with a centre forward also, but it is hard to know whether this will be to accompany Kane or act as an alternative to him.
Lacazette’s signing would be a real statement of intent by the White Hart Lane side but tactically Mauricio Pochettino would need to think it through.
Playing the strike pairing together would require a change in formation from the club’s usual 4-2-3-1 system, or dropping Kane into the number ten role – which could limit his ability to hit the back of the net and put more emphasis on him to create.
Verdict
Lacazette looks set to be a real star for years to come and is clearly ready for a move to the Premier League.
Although all three clubs would benefit from his acquisition this summer, Liverpool are crying out for a centre forward of his ilk and would be best advised to do whatever it takes to bring him to Anfield.
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