Alexis Sanchez in no better place in Europe than Arsenal, says Keown

Arsenal forward Alexis Sanchez will not find a better place to play his football in Europe than the Gunners, according to former defender Martin Keown.

Sanchez, along with team-mate Mesut Ozil, have failed to sign new terms with Arsene Wenger’s side and are understood to be holding out for more money than has been offered by the club.

Sanchez, a £31.7 million capture from Barcelona in 2014, and Ozil, who arrived for a club record £42.5 million from Real Madrid in 2013, both have 18 months left on their deals at the Emirates Stadium.

Keown believes Sanchez is given the freedom to express himself by Wenger, but added the Gunners will not be held to ransom over wage demands.

Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

“I have a feeling that when one signs, the other will follow suit,” Keown said. “If Ozil had already signed, I’m sure Sanchez would have too.

“I don’t think Sanchez could find anywhere else in Europe that is better than what he is finding at Arsenal.

“He is a free spirit, working with a manager who will give him the freedom to express himself.

“He is using his tremendous pace to great effect in a central position and Arsenal must make the most of him in that position.

“Arsenal won’t be held to ransom — we’ve seen this with Robin van Persie. But if they leave it 18 months and the pair leave on a free then that’s the best part of £72 million gone.

“Arsenal would need to spend at least £100m to replace them. They need to get these two signed up.”