Tag Archives: Arsenal

The Premier League’s big spenders are set to do it all again this summer to bring some of the finest players to English football and strengthen their sides for the forthcoming campaign.

English football’s rise of TV revenue has lead to Premier League side’s paying a premium price on the transfer market and inflation over recent years has seen players cost more and more, with transfer records being set regularly.

Paul Pogba became the world’s first €100m player last year when he sealed a move from Juventus to Manchester United but his record is likely to be broken in the coming months, with audacious fees being mentioned- some in excess of £120m.

With the likelihood that records will be smashed this summer, we’ve identified ten players who could become the most expensive players in the history of world football in the coming  months if they secure a lucrative move- and it features a number of Premier League targets.

Kylian Mbappe (Monaco)

The hottest name in world football right now, teenage sensation Kylian Mbappe has been linked with a host of Europe’s top-sides this summer, including Arsenal, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, but Monaco are determined to keep hold of his services.

Mbappe’s ability and the fact Monaco don’t want to sell means his price-tag will be driven higher and higher, with reports already indicating a deal could cost in excess of £120m- a sensational figure for this year’s breakthrough star.

Arsenal have successfully established themselves as one of the biggest clubs in world football and the Gunners have enjoyed a wealth of success in the Premier League era.

Winning three domestic crowns since 1992, the last of which came in 2004, Arsenal have also established themselves as the most successful club in FA Cup history- whilst manager Arsene Wenger has lifted more FA Cups than anyone else.

Naturally as a big club, Arsenal have to spend big funds to sign top players but the Gunners have seemed more reluctant to do so than their arch-rivals in the division, until recently of course as Wenger parted with over £100m last summer.

The majority of Arsenal’s most expensive dealings have come in recent years but there’s still a few names from the past that stand-out there as significant deals, so we’ve assembled the most-expensive Arsenal XI in the club’s history.

Before we start, we must mention that this is not just Arsenal’s most expensive 11 signings and is instead a line-up of their most expensive recruits across all positions throughout the years. All figures were collected from TransferMarkt.

GK: Petr Cech (£11.9m)

After a whopping 333 Premier League appearances for Chelsea, Petr Cech moved across London in 2015 to become Arsenal’s first-choice goalkeeper- after Thibaut Courtois’ return to Stamford Bridge from Atletico Madrid pushed the veteran stopper down the pecking order.

Since then, Cech has lifted the FA Cup and Community Shield with Arsenal, making 69 Premier League appearances in total. Now 35, and showing signs of decline, rumours have speculated that Arsenal are in search of a long-term replacement.

Arsenal are determined to show they mean business this summer and Arsene Wenger seems ready to splash the cash, with the Gunners looking to end a 13-year wait for a Premier League title.

The North London giants continued their renaissance in May by lifting their third FA Cup crown in four years but the Gunners have remained short of fighting for league success, whilst they’ve also failed to move forward with their exploits on the continent.

Arsenal’s summer signings will be brought in with the hope that they can kick-start a new revolution for the Gunners and Monaco ace Kylian Mbappe is top of their wish-list, with a deal set to shatter the club-record £42.5m spent on Mesut Ozil in 2013.

Wenger’s side face a wealth of competition for Mbappe’s signature, with The Mirror stating Paris Saint-Germain have launched a world-record £119m bid for the teenager and Spanish outlet Marca claiming Liverpool have seen a bid of their own rejected.

Interestingly though, it seems Arsenal are very much in the race for one of the most exciting young prospects within European football.

What’s the latest?

Football.London state Arsenal are ready to make a fresh bid for Mbappe with Arsene Wenger’s confidence of securing a deal growing in recent weeks, so much so that the Gunners are reportedly preparing an audacious offer that would eclipse the approach from PSG.

Mbappe held talks with Monaco regarding his future last week, after returning from international duty with France, and seems increasingly likely to leave this summer despite the French principality outfit being desperate to keep their star-man.

Arsenal believe their approach could be the ideal move for Mbappe at this stage of his career, allowing him to continue his development and being assured of regular first-team football, with The Telegraph stating the 18-year-old is open to a move to North London.

Arsene Wenger’s track record of nurturing young players in playing to the Gunners advantage and the opportunity for Mbappe to become the leading man at the Emirates Stadium is significant ahead of a World Cup year.

Could it really happen?

Despite Arsenal’s confidence and all the positive news flowing the way of Gooners, it would still be a massive shock to see Mbappe move to North London this summer- especially as it would see the Gunners set a world transfer record.

Wenger has previously been tight with his spending, with Arsenal’s club-record deals being significantly less than some of their main rivals, although the French boss has shown willingness to change in recent years- spending over £100m last summer.

Splashing such an audacious amount on one player doesn’t seem to fit the Wenger mould though but it’s clear Arsenal do need to spend this summer and securing a deal for a player like Mbappe would certainly ease the pressure on the shoulders of the long-serving boss.

Arsenal enter tomorrow’s FA Cup final in a bit of a mess, as it’s not clear what Gunners side we’re set to witness at the start of next season.

Whilst it’s more than likely Arsene Wenger will extend his contract, the general consensus from the fans is that it’s not what they want and the wealth of uncertainty hovers above North London this summer- with Wenger, key players and the board potentially set for exits.

The Gunners endured a sub-par Premier League campaign, finishing outside of the top-four for the first time in over two decades, and were on the receiving end of a drubbing from Bayern Munich in the Champions League- losing 10-2 on aggregate.

Tomorrow’s FA Cup final won’t heal those wounds but winning the trophy is a crucial step for Arsenal’s rejuvenation, whereas defeat could make their difficult task this summer all the more daunting.

Should Arsenal win tomorrow, they can consider the campaign as partly successful and the fact they’re winning honours will help them keep the likes of Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil at the club, as well as helping lure big-names in from elsewhere.

If they were to lose, as many expect, then it could be the final straw for players like Alexis and Ozil, as well as giving the Gunners a battle in their quest to lure potential targets to the Emirates Stadium. Crucially though, it would set-up a poisonous atmosphere around North London.

Failure to win tomorrow would be the latest frustration for Arsenal fans with Arsene Wenger and it would be difficult to spin any sort of positive out of the campaign to justify handing the long-serving Frenchman a fresh deal- so Arsenal are drawing a huge target on their back.

Lift the FA Cup and Wenger maybe, just maybe, be able to save some grace and have some support from the fanbase or, equally, it may allow him to walk away with his head held high after securing yet more success to cap off his fantastic tenure in charge of the Gunners.

Without FA Cup victory and a top-four finish, it would be extremely difficult for Arsenal to justify handing Arsene Wenger a contract extension and the club would be a time bomb, which would be set off at any stage next season when the Gunners endure a blip in form.

Arsenal’s backs are against the walls as they face a huge test to compete with the financial might of the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United and Manchester City and, in truth, it’s going to take the Gunners a long time to ever be considered the favourites for Premier League glory once again.

The glory years of Arsenal are a long way gone and any chance of salvaging a decent future in the coming years hangs in the balance ahead of tomorrow’s clash, as the Gunners will find it extremely difficult to keep key players and attract big names without being able to boast a trophy in their locker.

Arsenal have endured a majorly disappointing campaign and, barring a miracle on Sunday, will spend next season away from Champions League endeavours- which could lead to a mass exodus.

The futures of key players like Alexis Sanchez, Mesut Ozil and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain remain shrouded in speculation and Arsenal may have to search the transfer market for replacements, as well as strengthening their current squad.

Arsenal are crying out for a top-class striker, improvements to their defensive line, additional midfielders and potentially a new goalkeeper to succeed Petr Cech; all of which leaves Arsene Wenger, or whoever is in charge at the Emirates Stadium, facing a daunting task.

Debate will continue throughout the summer around what sort of business Arsenal need to conduct to stand competitiveness next season and we’ve asked our team what they believe the Gunners need to do in the transfer market to avoid being left behind by their rivals.

Sam Cox (@SamRCox_)

Winning a title with Arsene Wenger in charge remains unlikely. Their best chance, though, obviously will come if they keep Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez.

Away from that, the cry for another striker is hauntingly familiar, but it remains as relevant as ever. A player in a similar mould to Aaron Ramsey to avoid potential dependence on the Welshman in the 3-4-3 is equally key, however. A new central defender to replace Gabriel and at least one left-back is a must, too.

Tom Scholes (@TomScholes316)

To be considered as serious title challengers, things really need to change in the red half of North London. The future of Arsene Wenger needs to be addressed, business needs to be done quickly and they can’t have another season like this one where everything seemed to go wrong.

Spending tons of cash of big name players won’t do the trick. Provided he stays, Wenger needs to pick a certain formation and build around that system. Another centre back is imperative, maybe some more orthodox wing backs despite Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain proving capable of playing out wide.

Another central midfielder to compliment Granit Xhaka and an out and out goal scorer is needed for Arsenal to be taken seriously.

Josh Challies (@Challies11)

Once again, Arsenal seem to be a couple short of a full deck and it’s been a case of one step forward, two steps back for the Gunners in recent years. Bizarrely though, the common trend remains of Arsenal being desperate for a top-class striker.

Arsenal’s need for a quality striker is obvious but it’s not just on the field where Arsenal need to make a statement of intent, as the Gunners need to show they’re prepared to battle the likes of both Manchester clubs and Chelsea in the transfer market.

Sead Kolasinac is a good start to Arsenal’s summer but they can’t stop there. As well as a striker, the Gunners need a successor to Santi Cazorla, Petr Cech and Laurent Koscielny- all of whom are in the twilight years of their careers.

Shane Burns (@MediaShaneBurns)

Truthfully the Gunners need more than a few players. They also need their rivals to slip up in the transfer market – and drastically.

Ideally Arsene Wenger will be targeting a centre-forward, a box-to-box midfielder, another centre-back and left-back for starters. With Saed Kolasinic arriving from Schalke, the progression is underway. Keeping hold of Sanchez is a necessity for Arsenal also.

Manchester City’s debut campaign under Pep Guardiola is set to end without a trophy, which is increasing the pressure upon the former Bayern Munich boss to invest heavily this summer.

Guardiola is set to oversee a major reshuffle in his squad, as he replaces players who aren’t cut out for the challenge and looks to replace the ageing guard- which includes his array of full-backs, which has led to the Citizens eyeing big recruits in this area.

Tottenham Hotspur ace Kyle Walker is reported to be the priority signing for Guardiola this summer, who’s understood to be eyeing home-grown talents to add to his squad as the Citizens look to battle up the Premier League standings.

British players come at a premium price this days but City can certainly afford to pay what’s necessary and we’ve identified four more home-grown players that could follow Walker to the Etihad Stadium.

Jordan Pickford

The England international is one of few Sunderland players who can hold their head high following the club’s relegation to the Championship and Pickford is more than likely going to be on the move this summer, as he battles for the number one jersey in Gareth Southgate’s England squad.

With Joe Hart set to be ousted and summer-signing Claudio Bravo struggling, Pep Guardiola’s side have been linked to signing a new goalkeeper and Pickford could be the perfect fit for the Citizens as he’s young, homegrown and should be relatively easy to capture.

Arsenal seem to be on the rise again, having sealed their place in next month’s FA Cup final following a 2-1 victory over Manchester City at Wembley.

Goals from Nacho Monreal and Alexis Sanchez saw the Gunners come from behind to take the win, having conceded the opening goal to Sergio Aguero, but the positives of that performance could be overshadowed by continued concerns regarding the futures of Arsenal’s star-players.

Match-winner Alexis Sanchez is one of many players who face an uncertain future at Arsenal, as the Chilean is rapidly approaching the final 12 months of his contract and is attracting vast interest from across Europe.

Whilst many feel Alexis will move on this summer, Arsene Wenger has a different view and has issued a huge statement following yesterday’s victory- claiming the former Barcelona man is going nowhere.

What was said?

Quoted by The Sun, Wenger said after yesterday’s win:

“Alexis Sanchez was like the team, he had problems to start with and became stronger and stronger. He is an animal, always ready to kill the opponent. He will never give up.”

“He will be here next year because he has a contract with us and hopefully we will manage to extend it.”

What does this mean?

Wenger’s comments are a major statement of intent from Arsenal, as a sale of Alexis Sanchez now would see a target drawn on the back of the French boss as fans would see him as either going back on a previous promise or simply lying.

However, it’s a risky move from Arsenal as it opens up the possibility of their star-man leaving on a free transfer next summer and the Gunners would be powerless to stop him joining a Premier League rival, whereas they could force a move abroad at the end of this season.

The most crucial comment is therefore Wenger’s hope of extending Alexis’ deal, which suggests that negotiations are not dead in the water and an agreement could still be reached- although Arsenal will have to prove their competitiveness.

Arsenal will be looking to invest heavily this summer and must show Alexis they can build a title-winning side, especially if they fail to secure a position in the top four of the Premier League, which would see Arsenal not feature in the Champions League for the first time under Wenger.

The PFA Team of the Year was announced this morning and it’s fair to say the majority of people were underwhelmed by the selections, with the announcement going down like a lead balloon.

Naturally, the team was dominated by players from Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur, who currently sit in the top-two positions in the Premier League, but both sides can feel aggrieved by certain members of their team that missed out.

Arsenal, Manchester United, Everton and Manchester City fans will also share their frustrations, as they’ve had star performers overlook in favour of some rather questionable choices from the PFA.

Here at FreshFootball, we’ve also been left underwhelmed by the selections (seriously, Sadio Mane) and rather than discuss who should be in or out of the side, we’ve elected to select an entirely new team altogether.

Have we missed anyone out? Let us know in the comments below!

GK: Hugo Lloris

Spurs’ number one has been an ever-present figure this season between the sticks for the most resilient defence in the Premier League, with the Lilywhites conceding just 22 goals so far- significantly lower than anyone else.

Whilst David De Gea at Manchester United has been similarly impressive, and being selected in the PFA Team of the Year as a result, overlooking the goalkeeper for the league’s best defence is a decision that doesn’t really add up.

The PFA Team of the Year was announced on social media this morning and it’s fair to say it’s gone down like a lead balloon.

Hoards of football fans have been left angry by the eleven players selected by their fellow footballers, with Arsenal supporters particularly agitated to see star-man Alexis Sanchez left out of the side despite his sensational performances.

The two-time Copa America winner has excelled for the Gunners this season, scoring 19 goals and contributing nine assists in the Premier League- numbers that significantly dwarf the contributions of Liverpool’s Sadio Mane, who was selected in the team.

Doing what fans do best, Arsenal supporters flocked to social media in vast numbers to declare their dissatisfaction at what they believe is a major oversight, which is understandable given that Alexis is one of the top-scorers in the Premier League.

The omission was made more surprising by the fact that Alexis Sanchez is in the running for the PFA’s Player of the Year award, so why wasn’t there space in the team for him?

Alexis this season (19G+9A) & Özil last season (6G+19A) not making the TOTS shows how the PFA mainly focus on the second half of the season

— Patrick Timmons (@PatrickTimmons1) April 20, 2017

BREAKING NEWS: The @PFA are under investigation after revealing their Team of the Year which features Sadio Mane and not Alexis Sanchez.

— Marcus (@madmark_96) April 20, 2017

Alexis Sanchez not in the PFA team of the year. Surely he has to go there instead of Dele Ali Mane or Kane.What a joke #PremierLeague #joke

— Dean Farrell (@DeanFarrell19) April 20, 2017

When you find out Alexis Sanchez was not selected in the PFA team of the year

19 goals
9 assists pic.twitter.com/zluAfTUpI8

— Jase The GÖÖNER (@JaseTheGooner) April 20, 2017

how can @Alexis_Sanchez not be part of the PFA Team of the year #EPL

— kennelynko (@kenchijo) April 20, 2017

How is Alexis not in @PFA team of the year when he's part of the 6 candidates up for @PFA player of the year and Mane is???? joke

— ㅤ (@ArsenalsChilean) April 20, 2017

Sanchez nominated for PFA Player of the Year
– Doesn't make Team of the Year

Mane not nominated for anything
-Gets in the Team of the Year👏

— Jesse Nagel (@NagelJesse) April 20, 2017

Sanchez didn't make the PFA team of the year but Mane did? that team is nonsense.

— broke boi 🦋 (@Bathandwa72) April 20, 2017

Ibra is a debatable one fair enough. but how on God's earth is Sanchez not in the team of the year 😂

— Gavin Mawn (@GavinMawn) April 20, 2017

If you think Mane deserves to be in the TOTY ahead of Alexis Sanchez then you're probably a weirdo who puts milk in before the tea bag

— Gunnervision (@Gunner_vision) April 20, 2017

Arsene Wenger surprised everybody with his team selection for the Middlesbrough game, as the man often describe as stubborn and a tactical dinosaur made major changes to his side and altered his formation majorly.

For the first time in two decades, Arsenal adopted a make-shift three-man defensive line consisting of Laurent Koscielny, Gabriel Paulista and Rob Holding, utilising Nacho Monreal and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain as wing backs.

Whilst there were some defensive frailties shown, the likes of Oxlade-Chamberlain, Aaron Ramsey and Mesut Ozil performed well, leading some to suggest that the Gunners to adopt this formation more regularly in the future.

It certainly needs some work but Chelsea have shown this season that a three-man defence can work well, whilst Juventus have demonstrated similarly on the continent as they push for success in the Champions League.

With a few tweaks and summer additions, Arsenal’s new-look XI could launch an impressive assault for glory next season and it could work whether Arsene Wenger or someone else is in charge.

GK: Jordan Pickford

Arsenal are reportedly looking to shake up their options between the sticks this summer, with Petr Cech failing to impress, and not getting any younger, whilst David Ospina seems increasingly likely to leave the Emirates Stadium in the summer.

Wojciech Szczesny is also likely to leave, having spent two successful seasons on-loan with Roma, and Jordan Pickford has been identified as the ideal target- and he could excel in North London, developing into the Gunners first-choice stopper and learning from the extremely experienced Cech.

Whilst Arsenal might be having managerial problems, they are also having some consistent problems on the pitch. With the end of the season approaching, Arsenal cannot afford to dither in the market and allow rivals to sign quality talent ahead of them. It seems that despite all the noise around Wenger’s future, he and the club have already managed to sign a very highly rated Bundesliga talent…

Left-back has been an area of concern all season, with the previously consistent Nacho Monreal falling out of form. Kieran Gibbs, Arsenal’s current backup option also hasn’t managed to offer much in terms of quality and I am sure that a new left back will have been high on the wish list for many fans this summer. It seems Arsenal may have already bagged a top talent in this position. With Schalke defender Sead Kolasinac’s contract set to expire at the end of the season, many of Europe’s top clubs have been lining up to agree a pre-contract deal with him. Arsenal appear to have won that race, with Juventus and Everton amongst the clubs who reportedly missed out.

Kolasinac is considered to be a very good player at both ends of the pitch. Defensively he is solid and known for his good tackling. He stands at over 6ft and is good in aerial duels, a rare trait for a full back and something Arsenal need. He has averaged 2.9 tackles, 2.1 clearances and 3.6 interceptions per 90 minutes this season – a very impressive set of defensive statistics.

In an attacking sense he’s scored 3 goals and assisted 5 in 21 Bundesliga appearances this season, a phenomenal return for a full-back.

Another poor performance from Monreal against Middlesbrough just fueled the fans thirst for a new left back. Here’s some reaction to the Kolasinac news…

Cant wait for Kolasinac.
Cant watch Monreal anymore, he'll be a terrible wing back

— Römeo (@Arsenal490304) April 17, 2017

Can't wait till Monreal is sold this summer. Main man Kolašinac coming next season

— Najyah (@ClassicArsxnal) April 17, 2017

Kolasinac wouldn't have let Downing cross

— renato (@rehnato) April 17, 2017

It's a shame he can't make overlapping runs, too old and immobile for that. Kolasinac would offer us a great improvement in that aspect. https://t.co/4RXO9H3ygb

— M'A8 (@mezzalaEN) April 17, 2017

Kolasinac is a decent signing for Arsenal. Huge improvement on Monreal

— ryan (@KeenanAndKeI) April 14, 2017

In my opinion this is a really good signing for Arsenal. Wenger showed he could switch to a wing back system in the game against Middlesbrough, and Kolasinac would thrive in such a system. You can see from the goals and assists he’s produced this season that Kolasinac has the potential to tt

Arsenal are in a bad place at the moment, but with no announcement on Arsene Wenger’s future, the players and fans must focus on the remainder of the season and pick up the points they need to finish in the top four. We take a look at what needs to change in the Gunners next game.

On Monday night they face a Middlesbrough team that are equally as desperate for Premier League points and it will not be an easy game as the Gunners once again face an away game on a Monday night against a relegation candidate.

The game is being shown live on Sky Sports on Monday night and you can get a NowTV day pass and watch the game for just £6.29 with our fantastic 10% off a day pass offer.

Goalkeeper: Petr Cech

According to the Daily Star, Cech will be back fit again to face Middlesbrough, in which case he will come back into the line-up. If this story is not true, then I’d like to see Martinez start between the sticks again. He didn’t have his best game against Palace by any means, but he’s a promising keeper that needs minutes.

Defence: Hector Bellerin, Shkodran Mustafi, Laurent Koscielny, Kieran Gibbs

I think something needs to change at the heart of the Arsenal defence. Neither Mustafi nor Gabriel have been good enough recently but Mustafi is the senior of the pair and should keep his place in my opinion. Koscielny will hopefully be fit again and walk back into the XI, if not young Holding should come in for Gabriel. I think Holding has really impressed when given the chance for Arsenal so far, and he is already more mature mentally than Brazilian Gabriel. At left-back, it was another shambolic display from Monreal against Palace, Gibbs isn’t great, but he deserves a chance to show he is better than the Spaniard.

Central Midfield: Granit Xhaka, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

Before his injury ‘The Ox’ was arguably Arsenal’s best player and now he is fit again he needs to be put back into central midfield, the position where he impresses most. His contract situation is up in the air at the moment and if Arsene wants to keep him, he needs to play him more regularly. Alongside Xhaka I think Arsenal would have a bit of everything at the base of the midfield, this would enable them to break down a resilient Boro team.

Attacking Midfield: Alex Iwobi, Mesut Ozil, Alexis Sanchez

Dropped from the squad against Palace, now could be the game to bring back Iwobi. He has a point to prove and after another quiet performance from Theo Walcott at Selhurst Park, Iwobi could regain his first-team place with a good performance against Boro. They are a team that will be tight and hard to break down, so Iwobi’s creativity may be needed from wide areas.

Striker: Olivier Giroud

Wenger has given Danny Welbeck an extended run in the team but that has seen Olivier Giroud sit on the sidelines for an extended period of time. In my opinion, he again deserves to come back into the starting eleven, with Welbeck struggling to find the net in his recent appearances. Giroud will be need to help combat the physicality of Middlesbrough on Monday night, with West Brom and Crystal Palace exploiting those weaknesses in recent weeks.

Remember the game is live on Sky Sports tonight and Fresh Football readers can get Sky Sports for a full day for just £6.29. You can redeem the fantastic day pass offer by clicking here.

Stay tuned to our social media accounts on Facebook and Twitter for match reaction.

Arsenal’s managerial uncertainty hasn’t stopped them making moves in the transfer market, with the latest reports suggesting that the Gunners are closing in on the signing of a new left-back.

Left-back is certainly one of many areas where Arsenal will be looking to improve over the summer and Schalke full-back Sead Kolasinac could be set to join the club for free, with Goal reporting that the Gunners are confident of landing the Bosnian defender.

The 23-year-old is primarily a left-back, but can also fill in as a central defender or in defensive midfield, so his versatility will certainly be attractive. Juventus are one of a number of top clubs that have been linked with a move for Kolasinac, whose contract expires at the end of the season.

Arsenal and other foreign clubs will have been allowed to negotiate a pre-contract with the player since January due to the Bosman rule.

Kieran Gibbs and Nacho Monreal have struggled to consistently convince in the left-back role, and it has been a long time since either put in a memorable attacking or defensive performance. Gibbs is one of a number of squad players that could be set to leave the club in the summer. He has been at the club for some time now but with just one year remaining on his contract and the player not able to hold down a

Gibbs is one of a number of squad players that could be set to leave Arsenal in the summer. He has been at the club for some time now but with just one year remaining on his contract and the player not able to hold down a first-team spot, he could be allowed to leave should a suitable offer arrive.

How good is he?

The calibre of club showing an interest in Kolasinac show that he is a very talented player. Is he what Arsenal need?

Despite being just 23, Kolasinac has been an ever-present in the Schalke XI for some time, making over 100 senior appearances for the club. Kolasinac is considered to be a very good player at both ends of the pitch. Defensively he is solid and known for his good tackling. He stands at over 6ft and is good in aerial duels, a rare trait for a full back and something Arsenal

Kolasinac is considered to be a very good player at both ends of the pitch. Defensively he is solid and known for his good tackling. He stands at over 6ft and is good in aerial duels, a rare trait for a full back and something Arsenal need. He has averaged 2.9 tackles, 2.1 clearances and 3.6 interceptions per 90 minutes this season – a very impressive set of defensive statistics.

In an attacking sense he’s scored 3 goals and assisted 5 in 21 Bundesliga appearances this season, a phenomenal return for a full-back.

He’s nowhere near the speed of Hector Bellerin, but he is deceptively quick for a man of his size and strength – from what I’ve seen he is quicker than Arsenal’s current first choice left back, Monreal.

Of course as a free signing there is little risk involved here and the Gunners could even sign another left back on top of Kolasinac if they wanted to replace both Monreal and Gibbs. The Gunners need to invest a lot of money in their team this summer and the chance to make a first team improvement for free would be brilliant.

Arsenal are set for a major overhaul this summer and reports from The Daily Mirror have stated the North London side will embark on a huge £200m spending spree. Here, we’ve outlined the five players Arsenal are looking to sign.

Alexandre Lacazette

Considered to be the missing link in Arsenal’s attack, the Gunners are desperate to bring Alexandre Lacazette to North London from Lyon this summer but the French club are notoriously difficult to negotiate with- which could see Arsenal having to break their £42m transfer record.

That fee, paid in 2013 for Mesut Ozil, is significantly less than the record amounts that the likes of Manchester United and Manchester City have paid so moving ahead in a deal like this would be a real statement of intent.

With Lacazette boasting 96 Ligue 1 goals in 200 appearances, there’s no doubt he would be worth the money.

The World Cup is just over a year away and numerous players will be thinking about their futures as they look to give themselves the best possible chance of representing their national sides. 

It’s no different at Arsenal and these five players should definitely seek a summer transfer to put themselves back in a running for their nation’s squads for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Jack Wilshere

The midfield ace has spent this season on-loan with Bournemouth and has made it clear he will not extend his deal with Arsenal unless he gets first-team assurances. As he rapidly approaches the final 12 months of his deal, it seems increasingly likely Wilshere will leave.

Having fallen out of favour in the England set-up, Wilshere needs regular football and Arsenal can’t offer that- as they already have the likes of Aaron Ramsey, Mohamed Elneny, Granit Xhaka, Francis Coquelin and Santi Cazorla.

If Wilshere doesn’t move this summer, and doesn’t get first-team football at Arsenal, the chances of him making England’s World Cup squad are very slim.

Arsenal have struggled to remain competitive over the past decade but a major overhaul is expected to take place this summer. With a host of reported signings on the cards, these four new additions will turn the Gunners into Premier League contenders.

GK: Ederson

The eyes of Europe’s elite have been turned towards Benfica ace Ederson this summer and Arsenal are one of many clubs eyeing his services, as they see the 23-year-old Brazilian as the perfect long-term replacement for ageing veteran Petr Cech.

Cech has struggled to remain consistent this season but is likely to stay on. David Ospina, meanwhile, wants more regular first-team football and an exit is one the cards. For next season, playing Ederson in the Premier League and reverting Cech to the cup campaigns could be ideal.

Arsenal face a stern test to replace Alexis Sanchez this summer if the Chilean decides to leave the Emirates Stadium but the Gunners have options in the Premier League. Here, we’ve identified three potential targets.

Riyad Mahrez

The Algerian doesn’t quite have the same reputation as he did a year ago when he helped guide Leicester City to a shock Premier League title success but last season’s PFA Player of the Year is still a quality player and one who can provide a boost to Arsenal.

Having only recently turned 26, Mahrez has years ahead of him and is approaching the prime period of his career. If Alexis Sanchez was to be sold, investing some of that money to lure Mahrez to the Emirates Stadium would be a wise move.

However, he’d be an expensive acquisition.

Manchester United’s transfer charge this summer could see them eye a move closer to home, with a sensational report being reported in South America.

As reported by Metro, Chile’s ‘El Show de Prensafutbol’ claims that Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho has contacted Alexis Sanchez over the phone to try and persuade the 28-year-old to move to Old Trafford this summer.

Two-time Copa America winner Alexis is facing an uncertain future in North London, as he rapidly approaches the final 12 months of his contract with no progress of an extension being made- and reports widely suggest he’ll move on this summer.

Whilst there is a wealth of interest in the Premier League, Arsenal would naturally prefer to sell their star-man to a side elsewhere in Europe- although that could be difficult if Alexis decides he wants to stay within English football.

How likely is a deal?

As mentioned, Arsenal will be determined not to sell to a direct rival and will likely block any move for Alexis Sanchez to Manchester United. On top of that though, it’s difficult to see where exactly Alexis Sanchez would fit-in at Old Trafford.

Mourinho’s side already boast the talents of Anthony Martial, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Jesse Lingard out wide, whilst Marcus Rashford has often been deployed on the wings this season and the Red Devils have been heavily linked with a move for Antoine Griezmann, who could also be deployed out-wide if United stick with their current formation.

Money is not a problem for the Red Devils though and Arsenal would likely earn a club-record sum for the sale of Alexis Sanchez, although it may not be worth it if the South American starlet was to wear the colours of United on a weekly basis.

Who else is keen?

The report also mentions interest from Manchester City, as it states Pep Guardiola has also held talks with Alexis Sanchez. On top of that, Chelsea are also heavily interested in the services of the South American- but Arsenal will still attempt to block any transfer to a Premier League rival.

Elsewhere in Europe, Serie A leaders Juventus are keen on bringing the former Udinese man back to Italian football, whilst oil-rich Paris Saint-Germain want to make the Chilean their star signing- having failed to replace Zlatan Ibrahimovic last summer.

There has also been talk of a potential move to Bayern Munich, where Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery are approaching the end of their careers, whilst a reunion with Jorge Sampaoli at Sevilla has also been mentioned- although the former Chile boss is unlikely to remain at the Andalusian side for too long, having been linked with Barcelona.

Arsenal grabbed a much needed 3 points against West Ham on Wednesday night. The Gunners managed to rediscover their form and at the heart of a great team performance was Mesut Ozil. 

Ozil has been widely criticised during the Gunners terrible recent run of form, but he proved the difference against West Ham on Wednesday night, in a game where Arsenal needed the three points.

Often criticised for his work rate, Ozil was always on the move for Arsenal, coming deep to control the game when required and tracking men defensively to ensure that West Ham could not build any attacking momentum. 

Ozil broke the deadlock, curling in an effort from distance and ten minutes later he managed a perfect pass to assist Theo Walcott who put the game out of sight. In these tight home games where away teams set up to get a point, Ozil needs to shine like he did tonight and make the difference. Hopefully, this performance will have boosted his confidence and he can continue to deliver performances of this calibre for the rest of the season. 

Ozil was at his creative best, managing 5 key passes and an assist. He completed 3 dribbles and 2/3 crosses. Ozil was involved heavily throughout the game, completing a massive 93 passes with a 86% success rate. We saw Ozil do some dirty defensive work today too, he looked energised and made 2 interceptions and 1 tackle.

Here’s some reaction from the fans to Ozil’s performance against the Hammers…

No player has assisted more goals (39) or created more chances (360) than Mesut Özil since he arrived in the Premier League. Standard. pic.twitter.com/x4LXnOXX9D

— Özil Stuff (@OzilStuff) April 5, 2017

OZIL 10/10

— w (@WengerGOAT) April 5, 2017

https://twitter.com/JMonk21/status/849741743025205251

In my opinion, Ozil has been harshly criticised in recent weeks. He’s not been good enough, but he’s been the one player to often get the criticism when in reality the entire team have been poor. 

Despite this, he has not been good enough personally and as a world class player, he really needed a game like this to stamp his authority on the team. Hopefully this will silence the critics, but Ozil needs to deliver this kind of performance more frequently, and also against the big teams, otherwise he will continue to be scapegoated. 

Arsenal face a difficult summer ahead of them as the Gunners risk missing out on Champions League football, whilst there could also be a wealth of departures from the first-team.

Amongst the stars tipped to move away from the Emirates Stadium this summer is two-time Copa America winner Alexis Sanchez, who is rapidly approaching the final 12 months of his contract with the Gunners and seems increasingly unlikely to pen a new deal.

His situation has attracted a wealth of interest in his services and French outlet RMC Sport has stated Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain have opened negotiations with the Chilean, whilst The Daily Telegraph adds Alexis would prefer a move to Stamford Bridge.

Naturally, Arsenal would prefer not to sell to a Premier League rival but Alexis’ contract situation does not put them in a strong bargaining position and any reluctance to sell could leave the door open for the 28-year-old to leave on a free transfer next summer.

Who leads the battle?

As mentioned, Chelsea are keen to bring Alexis Sanchez across London and the Chilean prefers a move to Stamford Bridge. However, the Blues’ strong rivalry with Arsenal makes a deal unlikely- and the same can be said for Manchester City.

In Europe, the likes of Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan have been linked with the Chilean’s signature, whilst there has also been a mention of interest from Sevilla, but Alexis’ likely demands for Champions League football could rule Inter out of the race.

That would leave Juventus and PSG as the big-hitters for Alexis’ signature and a move to the French capital would seem more likely, as the oil-rich club have far more weight to throw about in the transfer market than their Turin counterparts.

Is there any chance of Alexis staying?

Alexis Sanchez could still stay at Arsenal but his decision is unlikely to come down to money and will instead to built around what he believes he can achieve with a transfer. If he were to stay in North London, Arsenal would need to show significant improvements.

Finishing the season strongly would be unlikely to be enough to convince Alexis to stay and they’d have to show the Chilean they’re determined to turn things around- which could involve a major squad overhaul, replacing Arsene Wenger or going all-out in the transfer market.

Arsenal spent over £110m last summer but don’t have too much to show for it performance wise, so any persuasion on the transfer front would likely come from the calibre of players signed rather than the money spent.

Arsenal and Manchester United could look to swoop and secure the signature of a Leicester City ace this summer, with the Foxes fearful they’ll have to fend-off interest in their midfielder.

Wilfred Ndidi only arrived at the King Power Stadium in January, for a fee around £17m, but the Foxes are concerned he could jump ship in the summer as both Arsenal and Manchester United eye a move, as reported by The Daily Mirror.

Signed by the Foxes to fill the void left by N’Golo Kante’s summer move to Premier League leaders Chelsea, Ndidi has impressed and the 20-year-old, who snubbed interest from Arsenal last summer, could find himself on the move again.

Where would he fit in?

Both Manchester United and Arsenal are seeking midfield improvements this summer and both Premier League giants face the prospect of replacing long-serving members of their squad in the not-too-distant future.

The Red Devils are likely to wave goodbye to Michael Carrick at the end of the season and need a combative midfielder to fill that void, whilst Arsenal continue to seek a long-term replacement for Santi Cazorla.

Whilst Ndidi isn’t comparable to Cazorla, the Gunners would certainly benefit from additional strength in the midfield and a partnership alongside Granit Xhaka could give the North London side the catalyst to build success upon.

Could he stay?

Having only recently signed for Leicester, he could elect to stay with the Foxes. However, the defending Premier League champions face an uncertain future after slipping down the table this season and it’s unclear where their long-term status lies.

Nigerian ace Ndidi, who has been capped six times by his national side, will have aspirations of representing the African team in next summer’s World Cup but his nation still face a battle to get through the qualifying stages- although they’ve taken maximum points from their two matches in Round 3 so far.

Should Ndidi seal a move and play in European competition, his chances of making Nigeria’s squad would be significantly boosted and that could play into any decision he makes.

The best golf tournament of the year gets underway this week with the green jacket the coveted prize. The Masters always draws the biggest names and past Champion Jordan Spieth along with Rory McIlroy and Lee Westwood make up a great 50/1 treble chance offer from one of the top golf betting bookies’ Bet on Brazil.

Arsenal are set for major changes this summer and a host of big-names could leave the Emirates Stadium amongst a squad overhaul.

Whilst the Gunners have been public in their desire to keep 25-year-old Jack Wilshere, the England international is rapidly approaching the final 12 months of his contract and is seeking first-team assurances before he puts pen-to-paper on an extension.

Having struggled during recent years with a wealth of injury problems, Wilshere has impressed on-loan with Bournemouth and Cherries boss Eddie Howe has confirmed he’d like to sign the midfielder on a permanent deal this summer.

However, interest in the Arsenal academy graduate is high and Wilshere’s signature this summer could fetch a premium price.

What’s been said?

Quoted by The Telegraph, Howe said after the weekend’s goalless draw with Southampton:

“I’ve always said we would love to sign him. But that decision will rest with Arsenal. He’s played so many games. This is just a little spell where he’s been out of the team but he’s still coming on to great effect.”

Is Bournemouth the right fit?

Jack Wilshere may have found his feet in Bournemouth but moving to the Cherries on a permanent basis could effect his chances of making the England squad next summer, where Wilshere will aim to represent the Three Lions at the World Cup.

Moving to a bigger side may end up being the best course of action for Wilshere and he has options ahead of him, with The Sun stating this weekend that West Ham will offer £30m to Arsenal and give the midfielder the opportunity of remaining in London.

Wilshere could also have the option to move abroad, with The Daily Mail stating last month he’s open to a move to AC Milan- where he’d follow in the footsteps of former England captain David Beckham, who spent successful loan spells in Italy with the club.

Arsenal failed to win again yesterday and one particular player was crucified by supporters on social media, with many calling for him to be sold.

Arsenal managed to stop the rot yesterday with a 2-2 draw against Manchester City but it wasn’t enough to see the Gunners rise from sixth position in the Premier League standings, whilst they remain seven points behind the top-four.

Arsene Wenger’s side do still have two games in hand but a major improvement is needed over the final two months of the season, with the Gunners battling the likes of Liverpool, Manchester United and the Citizens for a top-four finish.

Of those clubs, Arsenal are currently the side that look destined to miss out on Champions League football next season and a victory against Manchester City would have given them a massive boost in the quest to turn things around.

However, the Gunners were forced to settle for a draw after fighting back from behind twice and one particular Arsenal man was hounded for what many believed to be a woeful performance- and it came from Arsenal’s all-time most expensive signing.

Mesut Ozil may have provided the assist for Shkodran Mustafi’s equalising goal in the second-half but he was guilty of sloppily conceding possession in the build up to Sergio Aguero’s goal, which came minutes after Theo Walcott equalised at the other end.

The German World Cup winner also failed to take advantage of a number of decent attacking opportunities and social media was awash with criticism for the former Real Madrid man, who enters the final 12 months of his deal with Arsenal this summer.

Any arsenal fans who think ozil and xhaka played well please you need help !!! What game are you watching 🙈

— paul jones (@paul_woodford_2) April 2, 2017

I’ll never ever understand why people rate Ozil so highly. In my eyes he is the most overrated footballer of all time.

— Jack (@CIassyCouts) April 2, 2017

Ozil out!!! In my opinion totally rubbish! Looks disinterested! Can’t be doing with him. Plus he looks like he needs a vitamin injection 😡

— Sinéad 🇮🇪☘️💕🎯⚽️ (@sineadmcanenny) April 2, 2017

I love Wenger but honestly now, arsenal needs a restart button, Ozil, Sanchez, Wenger can all go now. What an embarrassingly woeful club.

— Beardless Hunk (@DustyStreetzz) April 2, 2017

Not content with giving the ball away once – Ozil did it twice in the build up to that goal and then decided to have a rest. Woeful

— James Robson (@JamesRobsonMEN) April 2, 2017

I would sell ozil. He’s not what we need. Like playing with 10 players.

— 4everapplegrape (@4everapplegrape) April 2, 2017

We should sell Ozil and give all the money to Sanchez. #Arsenal

— Aminu Mahdi (@_Aminu_) April 2, 2017

Can the media please stop saying Alexis and Ozil are our two best players. Ozil not even in the top 5! Sell him

— Steve (@goonersteve12) April 2, 2017

I hope we sell Ozil to Fenerbahce in the summer. He’s beyond bad.

— aBs (@absdadon) April 2, 2017

Sell Mesut Ozil
I don’t even know why I’m an Arsenal fan any more#WengerOut

— Johnny Tse (@JohnnyTse) April 2, 2017

Been saying it for some time now, sell Mesut Ozil and Arsenal would greatly improve. This is shambolic #AFCvMCFC

— Patrick O’Meara (@pat_romeara) April 2, 2017

Chelsea are already the Champions elect this season, but the news of what they might be about to do in the transfer market will have their Premier League rivals scared. 

Conte has already assembled a brilliant first XI and it looks as if he is going to strengthen it further with some key summer signings. Here’s a look at how his side could line up next season.

GK – Thibaut Courtois

It goes without saying that Chelsea do not need to replace Courtois between the sticks. With interest from the likes of Real Madrid, they may have to ensure that the Belgian international is not tempted by a move elsewhere this summer, but should Conte make Chelsea Premier League winners again, why would he want to be anywhere else?

With the final intersecting international break behind us, we now enter the final stretch of the 2016/17 Premier League season, headlined by none other than Saturday’s Merseyside derby between Liverpool and Everton and Manchester City’s away clash versus Arsenal on the following day.

It’s high time for building momentum in just about every sector of the league table, so just who can we look upon to deliver the goods for their respective teams this weekend? Here’s Fresh Football’s Fantasy Football hot picks.

1 – Gylfi Sigurðsson

Position: Midfielder
Club: Swansea City
Price: £7.8m

He’s racked up eight goals and 11 assists so far this season for a side that has, for the most part, been flirting with the relegation zone, so it’s perhaps no surprise to see Gylfi Sigurðsson’s name being spoken in such high esteem within the rumour mill.

And meanwhile the Swans will be hoping their talisman stays long-term; they themselves still have plenty on their plate that requires taking care of, as the Welsh outfit battle for their Premier League status.

Paul Clement has managed to steer Swansea away from troubled waters ahead of yet another crucial clash in the fight to stay up, hosting Middlesbrough at the weekend.

The Teeside club, prior to Jonathan Woodgate’s debut as manager, sit five points behind Sigurðsson’s team in 18th, despite having a game in hand, so it’s a fixture of supreme importance for both corners.

Natural order sees the favouritism lie with Swansea, however, and the likes of the Icelandic playmaker have proven to make a decisive difference in the best of afternoons down in South Wales. Sigurðsson could well bring more euphoria to the stands this weekend.

Arsenal and Liverpool both have work to do in the summer transfer window to make their squads capable of pushing for Premier League glory and the two English giants are set to square off in the transfer market.

Spanish outlet Don Balon state the two Premier League outfits are rivalling the likes of Juventus and Sevilla for the services of Real Madrid’s attacking midfielder Marco Asensio, with The Daily Star adding the Spaniard is valued at a hefty £40m.

Asensio has made a positive impression in Zinedine Zidane’s side this season after excelling on-loan with Espanyol last term, where he made 34 appearances, and he’s since gone on to claim 23 appearances for Los Blancos across all competitions.

Real Madrid, and chairman Florentino Perez in particular, value the youngster extremely highly but both Arsenal and Liverpool could test their resolve in the summer transfer window.

Who needs him more?

Liverpool’s attacking ranks already look well stocked by Marco Asensio could give Jurgen Klopp an alternative option in that earlier, whilst the Spaniard could also adopt a more deeper role to partner captain Jordan Henderson in midfield.

Arsenal, on the other hand, face the prospect of losing Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez this summer, with the Gunners potentially seeing Asensio as a replacement for either of the duo, or they could also use him in a deeper role and establish the 21-year-old as a long-term successor to Santi Cazorla.

However Asensio, who has been capped twice by Spain’s national side, will be keen to ensure any club he joins has Champions League football to offer as he seeks to establish himself in Julen Lopetegui’s squad for the 2018 World Cup.

Will he be sold?

Real Madrid’s midfield ranks are well stocked with talent and that competition for places means that Asensio could be tempted by the offer of guaranteed first-team football. However, Real Madrid will dig their heels in and will seek to block any move.

Asensio could establish himself in Real Madrid’s starting line-up in the long-term too as speculation persists that suggests both James Rodriguez and Isco will leave the Santiago Bernabeu this summer, which would significantly reduce the competition for places that Asensio faces.

On top of that, midfield stalwart Luka Modric turns 32 in September and Real Madrid will be keen to ensure they have a ready made replacement for the Croatian, which is something Asensio can be for the Spanish giants.

Arsenal slipped to sixth in the Premier League before the international break and now face a huge test to battle their way back into the top-four. If they’re to turn their season around, they’ll need to do these five things.

End the woeful run

It’s a well documented fact that Arsenal’s form in recent months has been abysmal, with the Gunners remarkably losing six of their last nine games in all competitions. Not only that but two of their three wins during that period have come against non-league opponents in the FA Cup.

It’s pretty simple; if Arsenal are to finish in the top-four, this awful run needs to end immediately- starting this weekend against top-four rivals Manchester City. A defeat there would see the Gunners fall ten points behind the Citizens and potentially nine points behind the top-four, which would not be good at all.

Arsenal may have to face another summer of key players leaving this year as Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez continue to be linked with an exit.

The worst thing possible would be to see another key Arsenal player go to Manchester United – following in the footsteps of Robin van Persie. That was heartbreaking for every Arsenal fan and to see something similar happen again with Ozil would just really make the club seem 2nd rate.

Ozil, whilst not in his best form at the moment, is a world class player and the Gunners cannot afford to let go of him as they lack players of that calibre throughout the squad. Wenger, or whoever the manager is next season, needs to keep Ozil and restructure the team to make them play in a way that gets the best out of Mesut and the club’s other key players.

Who will Ozil bench if he insists on joining Man Utd? Maybe Fellaini who lives on the bench

— Berry (@sirberry) March 13, 2017

Also linked with a move to a Premier League rival is Alexis Sanchez. The little Chilean has stirred the rumour cauldron by suggesting that he wanted to remain in London, but ‘play for winners’. That seemed to be a dig at Arsenal, by suggesting they were not winners, but also a nod to Chelsea to suggest that he would like to play for them.

The quotes from Alexis come exactly a day after the Guardian reported that he is Antonio Conte and Chelsea’s number one transfer target for the summer. Arsene Wenger would surely be very reluctant to sell to a Premier League rival, but it appears that the player may force a move.

Here’s some reaction to the Alexis rumours…

If Alexis joins Chelsea I'll kidnap him, lock him in a room and make him watch Marley & Me forever.

— Gunnervision (@Gunner_vision) March 29, 2017

Considering we're financially stable, key players departing should be a rarity, let alone to rivals. Can't allow Alexis to join Chelsea #AFC

— Patrick Timmons (@PatrickTimmons1) March 29, 2017

If Arsenal let Alexis go to Chelsea then I'm finished with this club.

— TikiTakaConnor (@TikiTakaConnor) March 29, 2017

If Wenger signs a new deal and then the club authorise the sale of Alexis to Chelsea, you can expect an all out war in the fan base!

— Mr DT © (@MrDtAFC) March 28, 2017

Alexis going to Chelsea will hurt more than RVP

— Ö👑 (@MesutEra) March 28, 2017

With the likes of PSG, Bayern Munich and Juventus interested in the duo, Arsenal need to ensure they sell abroad rather than letting their stars join Premier League rivals. Letting either Ozil go to Manchester United or Alexis go to Chelsea would be terrible for Arsene Wenger’s reputation and Arsenal globally as a football club. The Gunners currently look a level below the rest of the playing field and letting their best players join Premier League rival surely just cements that status.

Arsenal and Manchester United are currently falling short of their objective to seal a top-four spot in the Premier League and major changes will occur for both sides this summer.

Jose Mourinho has shown he’s not afraid to splash the cash at Old Trafford and will open his wallet once again this summer, whilst Arsenal will seek a big overhaul as they look to improve on what has been a disappointing campaign.

Italian outlet Il Mattino suggests the two Premier League giants will fight it out this summer for the services of Villarreal winger Samuel Castillejo, following the 22-year-old’s excellent performances for the Yellow Submarines this season.

Valued at around £35m, Castillejo is set to attract vast interest in the summer window and a move to the Premier League could materialise.

Do United need Castillejo?

Honestly, no. The Red Devils already boast Anthony Martial and Henrikh Mkhitaryan as top-class wide players within their squad, whilst the likes of Marcus Rashford and Jesse Lingard are also options for Jose Mourinho’s side.

With widespread reports suggesting they’ll add Antoine Griezmann to their attacking ranks this summer, it’s incredibly difficult to see where exactly Castillejo would fit in at Old Trafford. If he were to be signed, then it would raise significant questions on the futures of players already within their squad.

Mourinho wouldn’t exactly be your first choice for a manager to get the best out of a youngster too, as shown by his handling of Luke Shaw this season.

What about Arsenal?

Whilst Arsenal’s wide ranks are equally well stocked, the Gunners face uncertainty on the futures of Alexis Sanchez, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Lucas Perez- which could leave the North London outfit with big holes to fill.

Castillejo could potentially replace Alexis, though he’s more accustomed to a role on the right, although that would allow Alex Iwobi to continue on the left and Theo Walcott to move into the central role he craves.

The Gunners also have strong ties in Spain and could utilise their former Malaga men to bring Castillejo to the club, as the Spaniard started his career with the La Liga side, with veterans Santi Cazorla and Nacho Monreal also boasting Malaga as previous employers on their CV’s.

Cazorla, incidentally, has also represented Villarreal, as has defender Gabriel Paulista.

Arsenal are set for a major reshuffle this summer that could see a number of high-profile departures from North London and Europe’s elite are ready to take advantage.

Spanish outlet Sport states Bayern Munich are leading the chase for Arsenal superstar Alexis Sanchez and are keen to use his contract stand-off to their advantage, as the Chilean is rapidly approaching the final 12 months of his current deal.

Negotiations regarding an extension have been put on-hold until the end of the current campaign, with Arsenal remarkably losing six of their last nine games across all competitions, but the chances of Alexis renewing with the Gunners seems to decrease with each passing week.

As such, fans of the North London giants will need to prepare themselves for a departure of their two-time Copa America winner and Bayern lead the chase for his services, as Carlo Ancelotti looks to build a side capable of dominating on the European stage after falling behind the likes of Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid in recent seasons.

Where would Alexis fit in?

With wing-wizards Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben in their twilight years are rapidly approaching the end of their careers, Bayern Munich need to strengthen their options out wide- especially as a permanent deal for long-term loanee Kingsley Coman may not be secured.

Alexis would come into a front-three alongside Robert Lewandowski and Douglas Costa, with Thomas Muller also stepping in where required, in a line-up that would rival Barcelona and Real Madrid’s MSN and BBC trio.

Chilean ace Alexis has already proven himself at the top of the game in both club and international football, whilst a move to Bavaria would see him unite with compatriot Arturo Vidal- which may make it easier for him to settle.

Would Arsenal sell?

In reality, Arsenal don’t really have much of a choice as their options seem to be sell this summer or lose Alexis on a free transfer in 2018- which would see the Gunners miss out on a major transfer window and would leave them hapless to stop the South American moving to a rival Premier League side.

The Gunners will demand a high price for his services, at least looking to recoup the £35m they paid Barcelona for the attacker in 2014, and Bayern Munich have the funds to make a deal happen- which would leave Arsenal with plenty of cash to find a replacement.

For the fans, seeing Alexis leave is bound to be painful and they’d inevitably be on the receiving end in the future, as the Gunners always seem to tackle Bayern Munich in the Champions League, but it would be fair better than seeing him represent a rival side on a weekly basis in the Premier League.