Southampton line up move for Arsenal star – Reports

Scott Anderson
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain: Linked with Southampton

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain: Linked with Southampton

Southampton have identified Arsenal midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain as their number one transfer target this summer, according to reports. 

According to the Daily Mirror, the Saints are prepared to make the 22-year-old their highest paid player in order to bring him back to his boyhood club.

The Arsenal midfielder is looking for regular first-team football in order to boost his England chances, and Southampton are reportedly ready to make their move this summer.

Oxlade-Chamberlain has been linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium, with a host of Premier League clubs said to be interested in securing his signature.

But Southampton have now launched an audacious bid to resign the England international, who moved to Arsenal in a £15million deal in 2011.

The Saints reportedly outlined a five-year plan to manager Ronald Koeman in a bid to secure the Dutchman’s long term future at the club as they look to qualify for Europe this season.

Reports also suggest they’re now looking to make Oxlade-Chamberlain a senior figure at the club and offer him vice-captaincy in an attempt to lure him back to St Mary’s.

Oxlade-Chamberlain has struggled with injuries through out his Arsenal career, and he is now in danger of missing out on Roy Hodgson’s England squad for Euro 2016 after suffering a knee injury in the Champions League clash against Barcelona last month.