What seemed like a far-fetched idea as recently as two weeks ago may turn out to be a reality – Arsenal’s two best players could be set to sign for Manchester United.
And this graphic shows what they look like in United’s red as opposed to Arsenal colours.
The news that Alexis Sanchez has all but agreed a deal to move to Old Trafford has stunned the Premier League, with one journalist claiming yesterday that the transfer was a ‘done deal’. The Chile striker is out of contract at the end of the season but Arsenal are reportedly prepared to cut their losses and accept a fee of £25m.
The link to Ozil is less shocking – Mourinho is a long-term admirer of the German, and the feeling is reciprocated. United’s interest in the player is separate to the interest in Sanchez and remains. Ozil is free to talk to clubs abroad and is only permitted to speak to United in June, which is the last month of his contract. United are more confident of landing Ozil than Sanchez and so the requirement for him is perceived as less urgent.
Arsenal, who stand to lose Theo Walcott as well in January, are unlikely to allow three of their most senior attackers from last season depart for pittance in January.
It is likely that United fans will have to wait until August at least before they get to see both Ozil and Sanchez in a United shirt – but this picture surely whets the appetite.