Monaco Reportedly to Lower Thomas Lemar Price Amid Arsenal, Liverpool Rumours

Monaco have reportedly reduced their asking price for Thomas Lemar to €70 million (£61 million) amid interest from Arsenal and Liverpool. 

According to French outlet RMC Sport (h/t Kristian Walsh of the Liverpool Echo), the Ligue 1 club are prepared to open negotiations at that price, despite Lemar having been the subject of a £90 million bid from the Gunners in the summer.

However, football journalist Loic Tanzi, who works for RMC Sport as well as SFR Sport, believes the 22-year-old will still require a premium price.

Per Walsh, he said of Lemar: "He is their priority to replace Alexis Sanchez. Monaco are not totally against the idea of an offer this month, but it would have to be a very big offer. I am told that Liverpool wouldn't make a big offer."

Monaco head coach Leonardo Jardim also poured cold water over talk of a departure for Lemar in January, per Goal's Robin Bairner:

ESPN FC's Jonathan Johnson cast doubt on a midseason exit but believes Anfield would hold appeal for the player:

Lemar would make a strong acquisition for either side this winter. Sanchez could depart Arsenal ahead of his contract expiring in the summer, while the Reds have sold Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona.

The France international enjoyed a sensational campaign last year, notching 14 goals and 17 assists in all competitions as Monaco won Ligue 1 and reached the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League.

Monaco have struggled somewhat this year, with Lemar among those to fail to maintain the same standard of play, but he has enjoyed a return to form of late, per Squawka Football:

It would be a surprise if the Principality club were to lower their asking price for the Frenchman given the interest in him, particularly as they're in a strong financial position.

Nevertheless, he would provide a healthy boost to Liverpool or Arsenal this winter, so it may be worth at least testing Monaco's resolve.