Arsenal close in on Bordeaux’s Malcom as a replacement for Alexis Sanchez and his agent’s hint on social media only intensifies the speculation.
According to the Mirror, Arsenal are on the verge of replacing Alexis Sanchez with a move for Bordeaux star Malcom, after reports suggested talks have already ongoing.
Arsenal will be desperate to find a solution to the Alexis Sanchez saga, which has dragged on from the summer and as expected intensified in January. After being absent from the away loss to Bournemouth on Sunday, fresh speculation has been that the Chilean is set to join either of the Manchester sides imminently.
Manchester City has been touted to be the most likely destination, but of late there have been strong links to Manchester United as well. As of yesterday reports suggested that Manchester United are in pole position after Manchester City were ready to pull out of the deal due to the demands of Alexis’ agent on transfer fees and wages.
Arsene Wenger suggested last week, Arsenal could sell their star man but only if they find a timely replacement. Malcom’s name has been put into the mix for quite some time now, and earlier reports suggested a strong Arsenal interest in the Brazilian.
Malcom has been having a strong season so far despite Bordeaux’s struggles in Ligue 1. He has been their talisman this season, scoring seven and assisting five in 19 Ligue 1 appearances. Arsenal rates the 20-year-old highly and are ready to pay £35 million, although Bordeaux are set to value the player at £45 million.
His Agent, Luis Fenando Menezes Garcia has however dropped a massive hint on instagram by liking a fan’s comment stating ‘Arsenal player? Like if he is”. This only intensifies speculation and Arsenal fans will be hoping the clubs wrap the transfer soon and avoid protracted delays.
The interest in Malcom has not been only from Arsenal, in fact, the Gunners are just the latest club to enter the race. Previously Manchester United were strongly linked, and there were rumours of a 26 million January bid in the offing. Likewise, Tottenham was expected to battle it out along with Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund.
Malcom’s move to the Emirates would more or less mean Sanchez is leaving, and although not many would consider the Brazilian the ideal replacement for the Gunners’ superstar, it nevertheless will help Arsenal in the quest for a top-four place.