Arsenal’s Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is reportedly demanding £150,000-a-week wages amid long-term interest from Chelsea.
According to a report by Goal, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is expecting a deal worth £150,000 a week from Arsenal with Chelsea pursuing a move for him before the transfer window ends. The Gunners are keen on retaining Ox beyond the window, but haven’t met his wage demands yet with less than 12 months remaining on his current deal.
Chelsea have been one of Oxlade-Chamberlain’s many suitors this summer and are willing to pay about £35 million to procure the Englishman’s services. Arsene Wenger has been adamant about not wanting the player to leave.
Therefore, it will be interesting to see if he is willing to bump up the player’s earnings or cash in on him. Despite the player’s demands, it won’t be too surprising if the Blues agree to that since they are in dire need of reinforcements, in midfield as well as at right wing-back.
The Blues’ problems have further worsened after both Cesc Fabregas and Gary Cahill received red cards during their opening day defeat to Burnley, leaving Antonio Conte seriously short of recognised options.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was tipped to be the next big thing 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 last 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 can be a value addition. With Oxlade-Chamberlain proving that he can be a strong right wing-back like Moses, a move for the Arsenal man may just be on the cards.
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 Danilo.
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.
