Chelsea and Manchester United are keeping a track of Aaron Ramsey, whose talks with Arsenal over a new deal have reportedly stalled
According to a report by The Sun, Arsenal have failed to make progress in talks with Aaron Ramsey over a new deal. The two parties are struggling to reach an agreement over the terms, which has alerted the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United to the possibility of snapping him up for free next summer.
Ramsey has become one of Arsenal’s most important players over the last half-a-decade or so, with the 2013-14 season proving to be his true breakthrough at the Emirates. Since then, the Welshman has gone on to get his career back on track, after injuries had threatened to send it spiralling downwards.
But, while he is a key player for Arsenal, the Gunners are now running the risk of losing him cheaply. The North Londoners have been negotiating terms over a new contract with Ramsey for a long time now, with his current deal set to expire next summer. His situation at the Emirates has piqued the interest of several clubs, none more so than Chelsea and Manchester United.
Chelsea had been on the lookout of a midfielder of Ramsey’s qualities this summer, with Maurizio Sarri eager to create a solid base in midfield for his side. In the end though, Arsenal managed to keep hold of their prized asset, with the Blues managing the secure the services of Mateo Kovacic on a season-long loan.
But, Chelsea do not have the option to buy Kovacic after the loan spell ends, which suggests Real Madrid might want to keep hold of him next summer. Ramsey is thus, a viable target for the West Londoners, who can have the perfect complement for Jorginho and N’Golo Kante in midfield. But, the presence of Manchester United looms as well.
The Red Devils have long been admirers of Ramsey’s talents. Interestingly, Manchester United had even come close to signing him before Arsenal ended up swooping him away. Now, with his future at the Emirates uncertain, United could have the perfect opportunity of finally landing him, and their interest does make sense as well.
Paul Pogba’s long-term future could be away from Old Trafford, with Barcelona heavily linked with him. In Ramsey though, Manchester United could have an able replacement, who offers a solid goal threat as well as creativity in the final third. In addition to the Red Devils and Chelsea, the likes of Lazio and Barcelona also seem to be interested, and why not.
With no progress in talks over a renewal, Ramsey could be available on the cheap in January, or better yet for no cost whatsoever next summer. Arsenal though, will have to be careful so as to not repeat the same mistake they did with Alexis Sanchez, who joined Manchester United earlier this year, and was also a target for Chelsea.
Ramsey is demanding a major bump on his current £110,000-a-week wages, which he feels is deserving of his stature at Arsenal. The Gunners now face the tough question. Do they budge to the player’s demands or risk losing him on the cheap to Chelsea, Manchester United, or some other suitors.
Contrary to reports of the Gunners being confident about the 27-year-old signing a new deal, the odds seem to be stacking against them. It now remains to be seen if Arsenal go on to tie Ramsey down to a new deal, or if Chelsea and Manchester United receive a boost in his pursuit anytime soon.
