The rumour mill has been going round the clock speculating about Arsene Wenger and his possible replacement, but thought we’d look at the other rumours circulating.
Alexis Sanchez is one who we all keep circling back to, and will continue to keep coming back to until his future is finally sorted out. The Chilean is well known to be into the final 18 months of his contract, and with him in top form this season, there are many clubs who are keeping a close eye on him. Rio Ferdinand has now claimed that his previous record of moving clubs means he is likely to move on very soon.
He said: “To replace him you are going to have to spend, £60m, £70m, £80m in today’s market. He’s the guy keeping them in the Champions League position. The problem they’ve got is his history doesn’t suggest that he sticks around long at his football clubs.
“With the money that’s out there in places like China, that will test whether he’s a man who wants to win silverware in Europe or if the financial gains he’s going to achieve in China is something that floats his boat.
“We’ll see but there is no doubt this guy is a phenomenal footballer. He’s a guy who can carry a whole team.”
Another Gunner linked with a move to a rival club is Jack Wilshere. Pep Guardiola has been named as keen on his capture, and ahead of City’s tie with Bournemouth, he has now moved to talk up Wilshere’s ability.
Guardiola said: “I remember in Barcelona and that year we played Arsenal. He left a massive impression when he came. A high, high level. I know the problem with Jack Wilshere was just the injuries.”
One player who will not be leaving the club however is Petr Cech, whose agent this week denied there was any chance of the goalkeeper leaving in the summer. The former Chelsea star has come under scrutiny from fans this month, but his agent insists that his place in the side is very secure.
Another player who has been regularly linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium in recent windows is Alvaro Morata, and that doesn’t appear likely to change in the near future. The player has confirmed his wishes to play more regularly, and with Karim Benzema supposedly set for a new contract, the Spaniard may well opt to look elsewhere.
Versatile defender Fabinho is now said to have been in talks with Arsenal, according to the Monaco star’s father, but he is believed to be more likely to join one of the Manchester clubs.
Is Rio right? Does Alexis’ record prove he is likely to jump ship? Would we sell Wilshere to Man City? Is Morata the man we need to lead our attack?
Pat J
I am indifferent regarding Wilshere. I believe management must sit with physio and medical staff and asses whether Wilshere will ever play as good at high level. I have watched Bournemouth this season and I have to say that one assist in half a season is not really an achievement. That and the fact that Wilshere took the easy way out by chickening in front of the competition. Wenger knew the injuries will come and was reluctant to loan him out. And I have to give it to him, he was right. Cazorla sesaon came to a screeching halt after Ludogorets and there was this opportunity. Not to mention Xhaka red card or Ramsey & Coq injuries. Besides, I believe Wilshere would have played before Ramsey.
As for Sanchez, make peace with the fact that he will leave this summer. One thing I am pretty sure is that Arsenal won’t sell him to a EPL rival. This stands as well with Wilshere unless City put down stupid money for his services, like 50 million. That’s the price tag for British players for being homegrowns.
Well said.
I don’t think there is much we can do about Sanchez but if we sell him, Ozil and Wilshere we would have a nice little kitty to buy some decent players.