Arsenal looking at Malcom and Cristian Pavon as a replacement for Alexis Sanchez… but only one has the potential to fill the Chilean star’s massive boots

AS Arsenal prepare for life without Alexis Sanchez, two South American youngsters have been touted as possible replacements.

One, Cristian Pavon of Boca Juniors, looks like a stretch for the Gunners at this point...

He is a fine prospect, but is very much a wide man – right footed, he usually operates on the flank, though he can cut in from the left.

Argentina recently tried him at wing-back, which put a strain on his defensive abilities.

At this stage is his career, Pavon might be worth a look as a possible Theo Walcott replacement, but it would be unfair to expect him to step into the shoes of Sanchez.

Malcom of Bordeaux, however, looks more of a likely lad.

Coming up to 21-years-old, Malcom is actually just over a year younger than Pavon, but the young Brazilian is a little further down the line.

He had the good fortune to make his name in a footballing environment that was very conducive to his development.

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In 2015 Corinthians, in his native Sao Paulo, had the best side that Brazilian football has put together in a while.

The coach, current national team boss Tite, was a class act.

The team, based on the silky possession game of midfielders Renato Augusto and Jadson, were a mature outfit with an understanding of the game and a solid method of play.

And Malcom gave them something extra – youthful enthusiasm, pace, versatility and inspiration in the last 30 metres.

Left-footed but usually operating on the right, he was getting behind defences on the outside, or cutting in and shooting at goal, or arriving at the far post to finish on the ground or in the air.

The side broke up at the start of 2016, but when came next from Malcom wad even more impressive.

He moved to Bordeaux – a different style of football in a new country.

He was no longer the protected little youngster in a well-oiled, successful side.

Now he was the big money signing from abroad, expected to justify his transfer fee in a mid-ranking team... and he has risen admirably to the challenge.

Filling out physically, he is now floating more across the attacking line, threading through cute little passes as well as shooting with surprising power – his free kicks are becoming a dangerous weapon.

He is clearly a player developing in the right direction – take away his goals this season and 15th placed Bordeaux would be in serious trouble in Ligue 1, a fact which ensures they will drive a hard bargain before letting him go.

Arsenal’s latest transfer target was named after Malcolm X.

Now Arsene Wenger – and other clubs who are in the chase – will have to decide if they are desperate to sign him by all means necessary.