Alexandre Lacazette visited Arsenal’s training ground today to complete a £52m move from Lyon.
France striker Lacazette has agreed personal terms and has taken a medical at the club’s London Colney HQ
The announcement is likely within the next 24 hours as Arsenal close in on their first big summer deal with Lacazette poised to sign a five year deal.
Lacazette could go on the club’s tour of Australia and China depending on his fitness levels.
Arsenal are still in the market for more players with Monaco’s Thomas Lemar their first choice but they could go for Riyad Mahrez if that falls down.
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has been confident for some time of completing the move that will surpass – exclusive of bonuses – the £42.5million spent to land Mesut Ozil from Real Madrid in 2013.
Lacazette could make his Arsenal debut in Sydney as early as next week. The Gunners take on Sydney FC on July 13 at the ANZ Stadium.
Arsene Wenger’s squad were back in pre-season training on Monday with the likes of Mesut Ozil, Danny Welbeck and Theo Walcott in action.
Lacazette scored 28 times in Ligue 1 last season – only Edinson Cavani managed more with 35.
Lacazette has also netted 100 league goals in 203 appearances in the French top flight for Lyon.
He could take the No.9 shirt at the Emirates, previously worn by Lucas Perez who wants to leave the club.
His arrival could see Olivier Giroud leave the club, with Everton and West Ham both keen.