Chelsea are reportedly determined to prise Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain away from Arsenal in a £35 million deal, even as the Gunners are trying to offer him a new contract.
According to a report by The Mirror, Arsenal could see Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain join Chelsea this summer, as the Blues are ready to table an offer worth £35 million. Although Arsene Wenger has been adamant about the Englishman not exiting the club, he has not succeeded in getting him to agree to a new deal.
Arsenal are expected to hold further talks with Oxlade-Chamberlain over the course of this week and offer him a new deal, even though he is believed to have already turned down two offers so far. With Chelsea tabling a tempting offer for the player, Wenger could lose the services of the talented Englishman.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was touted as one of the most promising young talents in England when he joined Arsenal from Southampton. But unfortunately, the 23-year-old has failed to live up to those expectations for a good amount of time. Last season, however, he showed glimpses of what he is truly capable of.
Consistent performances helped him retain a regular role for the Gunners in the 2016-17 season, making 45 appearances for his side, while also chipping in with six goals and 11 assists. In fact, Wenger truly tested his versatility by deploying him in various positions, which did end up working in his favour.
The Blues have been linked with Ox for a while now and with their requirement for a right wing-back accentuated, the Englishman is a viable target. With Oxlade-Chamberlain proving that he can be a strong right wing-back like Victor Moses, a move for the Arsenal man may just be on the cards.
Victor Moses’s absence through suspension in Chelsea’s Premier League season opener two weeks ago provided a cruel reminder as to why the Chelsea boss needs to add a right wing-back to his squad.
Additionally, Conte missing out on Danilo came as a major setback for the Italian manager. But, considering the kind of performances Oxlade-Chamberlain has put up lately, he can also prove to be a quality alternative to the Brazilian.
While it remains to be seen if Wenger chooses to increase his wages or agrees to a sale, Oxlade-Chamberlain will prove to be an asset, regardless of which club he plays for once the transfer window slams shut.
