Arsenal’s Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is set to leave the Emirates this summer, and both Liverpool and Chelsea are interested in landing the attacker, according to reports. The 23-year-old has had a start-stop career with Arsenal and it looks likely his career at the Emirates could be over after six season with the Gunners.
Liverpool and Chelsea have emerged as the front runners to sign the winger, but it is believed both Manchester clubs could throw their hats into the race as well. Oxlade-Chamberlain is coming off of a season in which he played 29 times for Arsenal in the Premier League, with 16 of those appearances being starts. He tallied two goals and a career high seven assists for the team.
Oxlade-Chamberlain’s current contract with Arsenal is due to expire in the summer of 2018, and combined with his interest in playing more, has given rise to speculation over a move this transfer window. Reports indicate Arsenal will ask for around £35 million for the former Southampton player, and Liverpool have not been put off of the Gunners’ valuation just yet. The Reds are thought to be slightly more interested than the competition, and a move to Anfield would possibly see the winger find more playing time.
Pep Guardiola has been an admirer of Oxlade-Chamberlain, and a move to the Etihad could see the Englishman feature quite prominently. However, like at Chelsea, Oxlade-Chamberlain will have plenty of competition for a starting place.
Despite being linked with a move away from the club, there is still the chance Oxlade-Chamberlain could remain at Arsenal and sign a new contract. The winger’s current deal sees him make £3.38m a season. A move to a club outside the top six could be difficult due to the player’s wages.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain Key Stats 2016-17:
- 2 goals in 29 Premier League matches
- 7 assists in 29 Premier League matches
- 1.1 key passes per Premier League match
- 0.5 crosses per Premier League match