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What’s the rumour?
As quoted by Mirror, Chelsea are eyeing up a move for Arsenal's Aaron Ramsey. The midfielder's contract runs out in 2019 and is yet to commit to a new deal.
In case you didn't know:
Aaron Ramsey was extremely close to a move to Manchester United in 2008 but Arsenal snapped him up. He has been at the club ever since, except for two short loan spells at Nottingham Forest and Cardiff City. The 27-year-old has made more than 300 appearances for the London club.
He was voted as Arsenal's player of the season in 2013-14 and is also a central figure for the Wales national team. He was pivotal in their incredible run in the UEFA Euro 2016 when they reached the semi finals.
The heart of the matter:
Antonio Conte's decision to sell Nemanja Matic to Manchester United completely backfired as he was not able to sign a replacement as good as the Serbian. Tiemoue Bakayoko has been a disappointment and Danny Drinkwater has been struggling with injuries. Cesc Fabregas has been largely inconsistent this season as well. All this has left Conte pondering on the possibility of signing a new central midfielder.
Arsenal are yet to open negotiations over a new deal with the Welshman and Chelsea may look to take advantage of the situation. The Welshman is valued at £36 million. Chelsea similarly tried to sign Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain last summer but he ended up at Liverpool.
The midfielder is slowly hitting top form as we near the end of the campaign:
Rumour rating/probability - 6/10
Arsenal are likely to hold on to Ramsey because they do not have many options in midfield. Jack Wilshere looks likely to leave the club and they will not want another midfielder to follow suit.
Video: Ramsey in 2017/18
Author’s take
Chelsea are likely to buy a midfielder this summer and Arsenal will be hoping they won't show much interest in the Welshman. They are likely to start negotiations with him regarding a new contract before the end of the season. If not, Chelsea have a huge chance to sign the player, who will definitely improve their midfield.
