Arsenal might have to be prepared for a big shock in the coming days with the contract negotiations regarding Alexis Sanchez showing no signs of being resolved anytime soon. Along with Mesut Ozil’s contract situation, this has been an area which has threatened to take the sheen away from their recent displays and the fact that they are 2nd in the table.
There are only a few players like Alexis Sanchez in the game now. A player so dedicated and a player who just wants to play. But along with such dedication and ability, a sense of achievement is also required after a stage and that might be the case with Sanchez, who is used to winning. With Chile and with Barcelona he has won major trophies and has been facing a drought other than the occasional FA Cup win.
His reactions on being substituted, his reactions at teammates failing to pass to him has been extreme and while it might be passed off as sheer passion at times, his frustrations at times is palpable.
Let us take a look at 3 players Arsenal can sign if this star player indeed leaves the club (even if it does not happen in this transfer window).
MARCO REUS
The Borussia Dortmund player was on the radar of all the big clubs at a point of time but untimely injuries affected his growth to an extent and somewhat made him go under the radar. But he is fit and firing now and it seems that Arsenal have earmarked him as a replacement in the event that Alexis Sanchez leaves the club.
Reus will certainly be an exciting addition. Possessing quick feet and enviable dribbling quality, he will bring in a touch of class in Arsenal’s attack. While it is not certain whether he can replicate Sanchez’s immense contribution, there is certainly a degree of interest in him at the Emirates.
DIMITRI PAYET
Yes, Wenger has repeatedly reiterated that he is not considering a move for the wantaway West Ham star. But with the squabble over the club, the player and Marseille seemingly set to go on for a while, there is a chance he might be available in the market in the summer if the French club does not meet West Ham’s evaluation.
He knows the Premier League pretty well and will fit into a team like Arsenal easily. His set piece ability is probably the best in the league and with the likes of Koscielny and Giroud in the team, would be a source of a high percentage of goals.
JAMES RODRIGUEZ
The Real Madrid star has failed to settle ever since his big-money to the Bernabeu and has been continually linked with moves away from the club. He has also spoken publicly of his desire to move in the recent past and although Zidane is unlikely to sanction any sale now, a summer move is on the cards. He has retained his form and whenever he has played he has been instrumental. Like many other players, he is spending too much time in his prime on the Real Madrid bench and a probable move to the Emirates might excite him. A chance to play in the English Premier League is a big draw and Arsenal can afford his wages and transfer fee as well.
