Arsene Wenger recently stated that he rates Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain ‘highly’ and wants to keep hold of him ‘for a long time’.
The 24-year-old has established himself as a regular in the Arsenal starting line-up following a string of impressive performances in his new wing-back role he was handed by Wenger at the end of last season.
His performances for the Gunners in recent months have attracted the attentions of Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool.
And with the midfielder yet to agree a new deal to remain at the Emirates with his existing one set to expire next summer, his future remains uncertain.
However, Wenger has reaffirmed his admiration for the midfielder by saying:
“I rate him highly and he’s one of the players who is on his way up.
“In the last year, he has made huge progress and I want him to stay here for a long time.
“I’m convinced he will be the English player that everybody will look at in the next two years.”
It was reported earlier in the week that Oxlade-Chamberlain wants at least £150,000-a-week to remain at Arsenal, with the club apparently unwilling to meet his demands.
Chamberlain has had a topsy-turvy career at Arsenal since his arrival from Southampton back in 2011, making just 66 Premier League starts and being named on the bench 64 times. Along with this, the England international has 11 goals in 47 starts in other competitions.
With his potential and ability finally showing, and looks to be a regular this season, is it not worth the Gunners giving him what he wants? £150,000-a-week. I believe so. Why? Well if Theo Walcott is pocketing roughly the same amount, why isn’t The Ox? He’s an all-round better player than his England and Arsenal teammate.
