sportbible logo

To make sure you never miss out on your favourite NEW stories, we're happy to send you some reminders

Click 'OK' then 'Allow' to enable notifications

Lack Of First Team Action Could See Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain Return To Arsenal

Lack Of First Team Action Could See Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain Return To Arsenal

The midfielder has been on Merseyside for four years but has grown frustrated this season with his lack of minutes under Jurgen Klopp.

Tom Fenton

Tom Fenton

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is reportedly weighing up a return to Arsenal, four years after leaving the North London side to join Liverpool.

The midfielder has struggled to break into Jurgen Klopp's first-choice XI this season, having been largely reduced to starts in the Cup, and late substitute appearances in the Premier League.

Injuries have also played a part in derailing his Liverpool career, with a serious knee issue keeping the 28-year-old on the sidelines for months at a time throughout the 20/21 season.

With this in mind, The Sun reports that Arsenal could test Jurgen Klopp's faith in the player by launching a loan bid for the explosive midfielder.

Image
PA

With the player rumoured to be keen on a return, having maintained a good relationship with Mikel Arteta in the interim, a move may not be out of the question in January.

Chamberlain has scored 20 goals in 198 appearances for the Reds, winning a Champions League and Premier League winner's medal in the process.

While not always being the first name on the teamsheet, he has certainly been a key member of Klopp's all-conquering squad down the years.

However, after four years on Merseyside, and with prospects of being a regular for Liverpool now seemingly fading, a return to the Gunners could be exactly what The Ox needs.


Image credit: PA
Image credit: PA

The most likely option for Arsenal, if they do decide to make a move for their former gem, could be a loan deal with an option to buy next summer.

The main reason for this is due to the club's ever-growing injury list, which already includes club captain Granit Xhaka.

It's therefore feasible that Oxlade-Chamberlain may only be required to fulfil a role this season, as opposing to long-term.

Xhaka is expected to be on the sidelines for a further three months, while both Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny are set to feature at the Africa Cup of Nations in January.

With this in mind, an initial loan deal, with an option to be extended if he performs well, could be the best outcome for all parties involved.

Should Oxlade-Chamberlain choose to remain at Anfield, he may spend much, if not all of the season well down the pecking order, below young prospects like Curtis Jones and Harvey Elliott.

Featured Image Credit:

Topics: Liverpool, Premier League, Jurgen Klopp, Arsenal, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Mikel Arteta