Arsenal join race for Chelsea star Nemanja Matic and propose swap deal for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
Matic is keen to link up with Jose Mourinho at Old Trafford but Arsene Wenger could try and persuade the midfielder to move to North London
ARSENAL are planning to scupper Manchester United’s bid for Chelsea star Nemanja Matic - and are using Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain as bait.
Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is looking to steal a march on his old foe Jose Mourinho as the Frenchman looks to beef up his midfield before the start of the campaign next month.
Following the arrival at Stamford Bridge of Tiemoue Bakayoko from Monaco, the Serbian midfielder has made it clear he wants out of West London this summer.
The 28-year-old is keen to link up with his former boss Mourinho at Manchester United, however Wenger is hoping to persuade the big Serb to stay in London.
However, Arsenal could take advantage of reports Chelsea will not do business with United as they pulled off the coup to sign Romelu Lukaku from under the champions noses.
Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio claims the Gunners are proposing a swap deal with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain whose looks certain to leave the Emirates this summer or in 12 months time.
The Ox has a year left on his current deal and there are no indications the England international is prepared to extend his stay at the Emirates.
Matic played a pivotal role last season making 30 league appearances as Chelsea won their second title in three years.
But Blues boss Antonio Conte has shown his ruthless side by adding to Bakayoko to his ranks at the expense of Matic falling down the pecking order.
United have bundles cash to spend this summer following the signing of Romelu Lukaku and Victor Lindelof, and are prepared to stump up £40million for Matic.
The Gunners and United face stiff competition from Serie A with Juventus and Inter Milan keen to land the experienced holding midfielder.