Last week we brought you reports that Arsenal were edging closer to signing Alexis Sanchez. Now, according to reliable Spanish media outlet Vozpopuli, Arsenal have tabled a €25million (£20million) bid for Barcelona forward Alexis Sánchez.
The opening bid of £20million is unlikely to be enough to convince Barcelona to sell, but Arsene Wenger is clearly aware of the club’s willingness to sell the Chile forward. Back in May, there were reports that Juventus were close to signing the him for just £16million. Reports in Spain suggest Barcelona hope to get €40million (£32million). A bid of £30million seems both reasonable and likely to be accepted, so let’s hope Arsenal can reach an agreement with Barcelona soon.
The advantage Arsenal have is Sanchez seems to be keen to join Arsenal over any of the other suitors. The report in Vozpopuli states: ‘Alexis who knows the interest of Arsenal and has given his ok to join the London club’.
The news of an offer from Arsenal does not come from just one source. Barcelona chief Andoni Zubizarreta told press on Monday: ‘Regarding the future of Alexis Sanchez, there have been offers for the player,’. With Sport and other media outlets in Spain reporting Arsenal as the players ‘preferred destination’, it makes sense that one of these ‘offers’ are from Arsenal.
Arsene Wenger had been carefully monitoring Sánchez’s progress during the tournament, and now he is free of international commitments, a transfer can be his priority.
Wenger recently indicated his desire to player a striker alongside Giroud, and Sánchez has shown for his country his ability to perform very well as a striker. He can also play on either wing, making him a very appealing addition to Arsenal’s frontline.
The Chilean is one of many forwards to be linked with Arsenal this summer, but the nimble 25 year-old represents a player who would add something new and is entering his best years. There are some suggestions that Arsenal are also interested in acquiring a second striker this summer, with Mario Mandzukic, Mario Balotelli and Loic Remy heavily linked.