Arsenal news: Arsene Wenger urged to swap Mesut Ozil for Joao Mario

ARSENAL swapping Mesut Ozil for Inter Milan attacking midfielder Joao Mario would make perfect sense, according to pundit and former goalkeeper Shaka Hislop.

Man United target Joao Mario in action

Ozil’s Arsenal contract is up at the end of this season and talks over fresh terms have stalled.

He would be allowed to leave the club for free next summer, so Arsene Wenger may want to sell in January to recoup some of £42.5million they spent on him four years ago.

Hislop reckons Mario would be a like-for-like replacement for Ozil and says it would be good business for all four parties.

“At only 24 years old, this makes sense,” Hislop told ESPN FC.

Mesut Ozil Arsenal newsESPN

Arsenal news: A Mesut Ozil for Joao Mario swap deal makes sense, says Hislop

As good as Mesut Ozil has been, I’m not sure he’s worth the money that he’s been asking for

Shaka Hislop on Arsenal star Mesut Ozil

“A like-for-like swap positionally. 

“As good as Mesut Ozil has been, I’m not sure he’s worth the money that he’s been asking for or was even on the table. 

“I put this down as a hit, I think it makes sense for player and club. Both players and club.

“I think it makes sense, like-for-like swap. 

Arsenal news Joao MarioESPN

Arsenal news: Joao Mario would be a good January signing, says Hislop

“I’m not sold on Ozil long-term at Arsenal, certainly not for the money he’s been asking for. 

“I just don’t feel Arsenal can continue to carry Ozil as they have done.

“Joao Mario for me a better fit at 24 years old. 

“I thought Joao Mario to Arsenal is a hit, as a result, that’s the other side of the exact same point.”

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