Three Quality Replacements For Alexis Sanchez Who Arsenal Should Target
It is very clear Alexis Sanchez wants to leave Arsenal next year, with a January exit also possible. Premier League rivals Manchester City, who failed to sign Sanchez in summer after Arsenal rejected their bids, are hot on his heels along with some top European clubs.
The Chilean star has entered the final year of his current deal at Arsenal as talks over an extension continue to stall. Should Sanchez leave next summer, he will leave a huge hole in the Arsenal team as Arsene Wenger looks to rebuild following their fifth-placed finish last season.
If he goes, the Gunners must replace him. But who should they go for? Here are three replacements Wenger can have a look at.
Emil Forsberg
Emil Forsberg was linked with the Gunners with Bayern Munich also interested in the left-winger. The then-newly-promoted German side, RB Liepzig was one of the stories of European football last term and Forsberg played a vital role in helping the club finish second and qualify for Champions League. The Swede netted 8 goals and provided 19 assists for the surprise-package Leipzig last term.
The 26-year-old has pace, the ability to cut inside and a keen eye for a goal. He offers dynamism on the left, with his agility and creativity. Forsberg, for all good reasons will be a solid signing for the Gunners.
Riyad Mahrez
Just like Sanchez, Riyad Mahrez was tipped to leave Leicester City this summer after handing a transfer request. With the Foxes currently struggling in the Premier League and manager Craig Shakespeare sacked, Mahrez might leave the club in January and could take over from Sanchez.
The Algerian is exactly the mould of player Arsenal would love to have. Mahrez is fast, skilful, diligent and a huge threat on the counter-attack. Being Premier League proven, there will also be less risk in investing on him.
Mahrez is a fantastic player to watch on his day and would have the Emirates crowd on their feet week in week out. While he only supplied 6 goals and 3 assists last season at Leicester, his talent is unquestionable.
Yannick Carrasco
Yannick Carrasco could fill the attacking role left by Sanchez, and possibly even fill in at other positions when necessary. The Atletico Madrid man enjoyed another fine season under Diego Simeone last season, netting 10 times in La Liga. Still only 24 years old, he should have enough time on his side in order to develop.
Carrasco was one of the most effective wingers in Spanish league last season and showed plenty of attributes that would go down well in the Premier League. If Sanchez does depart, Arsenal are going to be in dire need of another creative attacking force, one that can both create and score goals. Carrasco, a workhorse, certainly fits the billing on both accounts.
With Wenger preferring 3-4-3 formation, the former Monaco man would have more freedom to push higher up the pitch and become even more of a menace.