Speaking exclusively to The Transfer Tavern, former Newcastle United defender Steve Howey believes Arsenal could be forced to sell Alexandre Lacazette in the upcoming transfer window.

Following their elimination in the semi-finals of the Europa League at the hands of Unai Emery's Villarreal, the Gunners now no longer have a route to securing European football for next season.

It is a development that will affect the club's finances, which could impact Mikel Arteta's transfer plans for the summer.

Taking that into consideration, Howey thinks the Spaniard may need to sell a player like Lacazette in order to raise the funds needed to bolster his squad.

The retired Premier League footballer told TT in an exclusive interview:

"This is the first time I think in 25 years that they haven't made Europe in some way or other. Of course they'll have to sell players to boost the funds up. 

"I remember ages ago Newcastle were interested in Lacazette. I've always been quite puzzled why he hasn't [always] played, but I'm pretty sure Arsenal fans will be able to tell us a reason why, because I thought he was a good player.

"But that wouldn't surprise me if Arteta's looked at certain players and thought, 'well, these are the players that I can sell and get decent money for.' "

Lacazette's contract expires next summer, while he has been heavily linked with a move to La Liga outfit Atletico Madrid in recent months.

So, taking everything into account, perhaps the £182,000-per-week striker could be on the move before the start of next season.