There was a time when any talented young Frenchman was simply linked with a move to Arsenal.
While that is still the case to some degree, there is now a second stage for the rumour mill to go through – linking that same Frenchman with Newcastle United.
Long-term Arsenal target Alexandre Lacazette has well and truly reached that second stage as the Magpies have apparently launched a £19m bid for the 24-year-old.
According to L’Equipe, Newcastle officials flew to Lyon to discuss a deal, but Lacazette himself was not interested in any move – particularly as this point in a season which includes France hosting a major tournament at the end.
The striker scored 27 league goals last season, and he could perhaps be holding out for a bigger club.
Lacazette wants and will play in the Champions League. No doubt he'll move in the summer, but it'll be to a team that matches his ambition.
— Andrew 🦄🏴 (@thegibshow_) January 6, 2016
