Arsenal are refusing to sell both Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil in January, according to the Daily Star.
The report claims that the Gunners are not willing to see both of their star men walk out for reduced prices in January, and only one will be allowed to leave.
It is claimed by the Star that Manchester City are still keen on bringing in Sanchez after their failed bid in the summer, while rivals Manchester United are keeping tabs on Ozil.
It is also reported that Arsenal were thought to be ready to cash in on both of the stars, but are now unwilling to endure the double blow of both leaving.
Good move for Arsenal?
In theory, yes. The double blow of seeing both players leave at the same time would be devastating for an Arsenal side that lacks any other real stars.
The Gunners’ main aim this season is to regain their Champions League status, whether that is through the Premier League or the Europa League, and achieving that will be made significantly harder with the loss of both men.
But on the other hand, losing either men for free would also be a tough blow, and maybe the club should think about cashing in when they still can and reinvesting in new players.
This is Futbol rating: 5/10
Likely to happen?
It is hard to say, because the situation is dependent on so many different factors.
Firstly, there is the players’ wishes. Are either willing to stay at the club until the summer? Or do both want moves away in January?
If one makes a move away, then it is highly likely that the other will want to follow suit.
If one is willing to stay and fight for the Gunners for a few more months, then maybe the other would do the same.
It also depends on what the club want to happen. Are they willing to let either player leave to a rival? Or would having a say in a January sale be a smarter option?
In all honesty, Arsenal are caught in a catch-22 here. Whatever happens, the club will be worse off.
This is Futbol rating: 5/10