Arsenal could reportedly have a problem on their hands as Alexis Sanchez hasn’t ruled out the possibility of a mega-money move to China.
The 27-year-old has been a crucial part of Arsenal’s solid start to the campaign, scoring eight goals and providing eight assists in 17 appearances in all competitions to help his side put together an 18-game unbeaten run.
However, according to The Sun, talks over a new long-term £250,000-a-week contract have stalled and has led to the Chilean international ‘exploring opportunities’ in China where his wage demands wouldn’t be an issue for the big-spending CSL clubs.
Sanchez is said to currently be on a £130,000-a-week deal which runs until 2018, and the ideal scenario for all concerned with surely be to agree on new terms and extend his stay at the Emirates.
Nevertheless, it appears as though Arsenal could come under pressure to keep their star forward, as well as playmaker Mesut Ozil who will also see his contract expire in 2018, unless they are willing to meet their wage demands and end speculation of a possible exit.
It’s still a tough decision though as Arsene Wenger will smash the club’s wage structure which in turn could lead to them coming under increased financial pressure moving forward with other players wanting more too as budgets will have to be altered.
However, if the French tactician and the club believe that the likes of Sanchez and Ozil are pivotal parts of their future, then they don’t really have much of a choice and will have to act quickly before the appeal of earning big money in China turns Sanchez’s head.
At 27, many would feel as though it would be a major shame to see the former Udinese and Barcelona star leave England for the CSL, but based on the report it sounds as though it’s an outside possibility.