Arsenal have reportedly put a contract offer worth £125,000-a-week on the table in an attempt to convince Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to stay.
The 24-year-old has under 12 months remaining on his current contract, and there has been a worrying lack of progression in recent weeks, at least in terms of what is known publicly.
As reported by The Daily Star, Chelsea boss Antonio Conte is a big admirer of the England international and had been willing to bid £40m to prise him away and take him to Stamford Bridge.
It’s claimed that Oxlade-Chamberlain was unimpressed with Arsenal’s initial offer of less than £100,000-a-week, and in turn that sparked fears that he could be tempted by the possibility of leaving to join their London rivals.
However, the Gunners remain optimistic and have now put a fresh offer forward with the hope that the improved personal terms will convince the versatile ace to stay at the Emirates and continue to establish himself as a key figure in Arsene Wenger’s side.
Arsenal are under pressure to keep other key players including Alexis Sanchez who similarly has less than 12 months remaining on his contract, and so it’s a worrying time for supporters.
Especially given how Oxlade-Chamberlain has made significant improvements over the last season or so, coupled with how crucial his versatility is in playing at right wing-back, central midfielder or as a winger, he is a key part of the Arsenal squad and the club will undoubtedly be hopeful that he stays.