Arsenal ace Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain could well join Chelsea before next Thursday

That is according to Football London journalist Charles Watts.

Arsenal’s versatile midfielder is currently being pursued by the Blues ahead of next Thursday’s transfer deadline.

Antonio Conte is attracted by Oxlade-Chamberlain’s versatility.

And Chelsea have been put on red alert over the 24-year-old’s contract situation.

Starsport understands the Gunners ace is set to turn down the offer of a new deal during crunch talks today.

Oxlade-Chamberlain has less than 12 months left on his contract at the Emirates.

Despite offering him a new four-year deal worth £125,000 a week, Arsenal’s proposal is set to be snubbed.

Arsene Wenger has been starting Oxlade-Chamberlain regularly in his side so far this season, largely at wing-back.

But regular football is not believed to be his motive going forward.

Watts said: “Ox can talk it up all he wants, but it’s about money.

“If he thinks he’s going to walk into the Chelsea team as a central midfielder he’s kidding himself.”

Wenger is reluctant to sell, but Chelsea are ready to pay £40m for the England international.

With Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil’s contract also running down, Watts feels Arsenal need to cash in.

He added on website Football London: “I like the Ox and he had a very good season last time out - but I really think he should be sold now, before it’s too late.

“Unlike Sanchez, he’s not worth taking the financial hit it.”

Chelsea are prepared to bolster Oxlade-Chamberlain’s wages significantly as they lure him to Stamford Bridge.