Explained: Why Arsenal are currently ahead of Liverpool in Thomas Lemar transfer battle

Thomas Lemar Liverpool links resurfaced again this week

Arsenal are reportedly ahead of Liverpool in the Thomas Lemar transfer saga as they seem more prepared to pay what Monaco want for him.

This is according to SFR Sport journalist Loic Tanzi, who is quoted by Get French Football News on Twitter as clearing up the current speculation surrounding the player’s future.

Lemar has shone in Ligue 1 and could be an ideal signing for any top Premier League club, but it looks to be a two-way battle between Arsenal and Liverpool after this latest update.

Tanzi explains that Arsenal are making Lemar their number one priority to replace contract rebel Alexis Sanchez, who is heading towards being a free agent in the summer and who the Independent claim could even join Manchester City in the next few days.

The France international certainly fits the bill in terms of his attributes to replace Sanchez in that attacking midfield spot, with his pace, creativity and eye for goal making him one of the stars of the season last year.

Thomas Lemar transfer not a priority for Liverpool

Liverpool could also do with a replacement for Philippe Coutinho after selling him to Barcelona, but Tanzi claims their priority is to sign Schalke midfielder Leon Goretzka instead.

The Germany international is a fine player, and it may be that the Reds are attracted to the fact that he’s nearing the end of his contract with Schalke, meaning he could be far cheaper.

Thomas Lemar transfer update seems him closer to Arsenal than to Liverpool

MORE: Arsenal transfer news

He also explains that for that reason, Arsenal are currently willing to pay closer to Monaco’s asking price for the Lemar transfer, giving them a major advantage in the deal.

Either way, the 22-year-old would certainly make an exciting addition to the Premier League, wherever he ends up.