Yesterday reports suggest Arsenal have bid in the region of £22million for the services of Alexis Sanchez. Barcelona want more in the region of £32million.
Sanchez at this World Cup has demonstrated what a terrific player he is. At Barcelona he has shown glimpses of what he is really capable of, but not on a regular basis. Sanchez can play in a number of positions, either as a striker or in any supporting role behind the front-man, at Barcelona he was mainly deployed as a wide man.
Sanchez has expressed his desire to join Arsenal, instead of being part of any deal to bring Luis Suarez to Barcelona from Liverpool.
Although this opportunity is a great one for the London side, at this moment in time it should not be a priority to sign Sanchez.
Earlier last month Chelsea signed the former Gooner captain for £30million. Arsenal had the oppurtinity to sign the player, but turned it down due to the fact they have a number of midfield players such as Mesut Ozil, Jack Wilshere and Aaron Ramsey .
Where would Sanchez fit in at Arsenal? Sanchez could play as a striker, but he works best in support of a front man. With Nicklas Bendtner being released and Oliver Giroud not being consistent last year, a striker is something that needs addressing. Arsenal would be better off going for an out-and-out striker such as Jackson Martinez or Loic Remy.
Could he play as a winger? The Gooners already have Walcott and Oxlade-Chamberlain who can play on the right-side of midfield, as well as players like Tomas Rosicky and Ramsey have played there as well.
When Mesut Ozil signed last year he certainly gave a boost to the side, but the player certainly faded away towards the end of the season. When the fans were crying out for a dominant central midfelder and a new centre back, Wenger signed an attacking midfielder. A decision which would proved costly.
Although Wenger has been linked to players like Swansea’s Ashley Williams and Bayer Leverkusen’s Lars Bender, Arsenal fans should not build up their hopes. Although the FA cup win last year removed that nine year burden without a trophy. Without the reinforcements in their much needed positions the Gunners will fall short once again this year, especially with their Premier League Rivals strengthening in positions that needed it most.
Sanchez would certainly improve Arsenal, but there are more important areas of their side they should look at. Once again Wengers inability to look at the defensive side of the game will come under scrutiny from the fans.
Source: DSG
