Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has sparked intense transfer speculation after refusing to dismiss the possibility of re-signing former Gunners star Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
Speaking during Monday’s pre-match press conference ahead of the Carabao Cup semi-final against Chelsea, Arteta admitted the club is “exploring every option” to bolster a depleted midfield.
Arsenal could re-sign Alex Oxlade Chamberlain
The 32-year-old free agent, who has been training with Arsenal since November to maintain his fitness, is legally available to sign outside the transfer window.
When asked directly if the Oxlade-Chamberlain could be handed a short-term contract, Arteta offered a cryptic but open-ended response.
He said: “We need to do everything that we possibly can to see if we have a player that is available. If we don’t, we keep what we have.”
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The transfer speculations comes as a direct result of a significant injury to Mikel Merino.
The Spanish international is set to undergo surgery on a fractured bone in his right foot sustained during the recent clash with Manchester United.
With the winter window now closed, the free-agent market, and specifically a player already integrated into the training environment, presents a rare lifeline.
Why Oxlade-Chamberlain could be a masterstroke signing for Arsenal
(Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
While injuries have plagued Oxlade-Chamberlain since his departure from Liverpool and a brief stint at Besiktas, his return would offer Arsenal much-needed tactical flexibility.
Having played nearly 200 games for the club between 2011 and 2017, his familiarity with the “Arsenal way” is a significant advantage.
Club
Appearances
Goals
Assists
Arsenal
198
20
28
Liverpool
146
18
15
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain stats for Liverpool and Arsenal
Beyond sentiment, his experience in high-pressure title races and Champions League nights with…
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