The stage is set and we could see Alexis Sanchez packing his bags from Emirates Stadium to his new territory. The Chilean international had been linked with a number of clubs in the summer but Arsene Wenger’s tough approach detained the player for the time being.
The 28-year-old is unlikely to continue in North London beyond this season and Arsene Wenger might just decide to cash in on one of his prized assets in January itself. But the French manager won’t let him leave until he finalises a contingency plan for his absence and it seems the manager has finally decided on Sanchez’s replacement.
If rumours are to be believed, Wenger has identified Wilfried Zaha as a possible candidate to replace the Chilean. It might sound like a bad joke but the Ivory Coast international could be seen in a Gunners jersey in the near future.
Palace have been struggling this season as the Eagles are submerged in the relegation zone following some awful performances. Their stock has fallen downwards and it might force Zaha to reconsider his future at the Selhurst Park.
The winger initially joined the Eagles in 2014 on loan and after impressing the club hierarchy, they decided to bring him on a permanent deal and since then he has gone on to stamp his authority in the Premier League.
The 25-year-old recorded his career-best figures last season as he netted seven goals and racked up another 11 assists in the Premier League. His impressive showings attracted the interest of a number of clubs and now Wenger is apparently ready to make an offer for him.
Arsenal are considering launching a mouthwatering £35m for him but given the inflated transfer market, they might need to raise their offer in an attempt to get the deal done.
Predominantly a right winger, Zaha can be utilised on a number of positions and most recently he has been used as a centre-forward by Roy Hodgson as Christian Benteke has been sidelined for an injury.
Zaha has been the chief tormentor for Palace in this season too as despite missing a key part of the season he has managed to register two goals in five matches. He was criticised for his playing style as he used to be in a dilemma in the final third.
But there has been huge progress since his move from Manchester United and he has worked immensely on his positive aspects. Hodgson is unlikely to let him leave and it remains to be seen how Wenger persuades the player.
