This summer is on the cusp of becoming a really good one for Arsenal fans here in the Football Transfer Tavern.

The club have already signed what they were desperately after this summer, a defensive midfielder in the form of Granit Xhaka – and it doesn’t look like Arsene Wenger is stopping there.

A whole host of big names have been linked, and it seems inevitable that Mourinho will manage to bag at least one new player before the season starts in just over a month.

Whilst the news appears all good; our Landlord has been ensuring his punters that this new transfer strategy brings some disadvantages to the Arsenal faithful – in the form of player departures.

In order to facilitate new signings, he says, there will have to be some departing players at the club – and that could just include some long-term stars.

With that, here are THREE Arsenal players that are definitely fighting for their future at the club…….

 

Theo Walcott

Despite brief moments of brilliance last season, our Landlord thinks the first player that might be on the move this summer is Theo Walcott.

The attacker has been at Arsenal for a number of years; but has failed to live up to the huge expectations that were placed on his shoulders whilst he was still a teenager.

Last season he was given a number of chances all over the attacking line, but largely failed to deliver – leaving his future in serious doubt.

This summer will likely be his last chance to prove himself able to competing at a high level consistently; and if he fails to do that – it could mean the exit door for the pacey Englishman.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

Another player that has been linked with the exit door frequently in recent months, and one that will disappoint most football fans – Alex Oxlade Chamberlain.

The young midfielder had the world at his feet a few years ago, but his career trajectory has hit a downward spiral as of late.

A number of injuries cost Chamberlain his place in the first team, and whilst he got more fit towards the end of the season; by that point it was too late.

The writing is not on the wall yet for the young Englishman; if he can perform well in pre season and regain his place in the Arsenal first team; everything could change for him.

If that doesn’t happen though – a move away to reignite his stagnant career could be the only option.

Kieran Gibbs

Injuries have played a really important role in the downward spiral of Kieran Gibbs’ career.

When he was young, he looked set to command the left hand side of the Arsenal defence for years to come; but injuries have really hampered his progress.

Last season he saw himself firmly behind Nacho Monreal in the pecking order; meaning it is unlikely he will ever get a game unless Monreal is injured

Add the that the rumours of an impending new left back signing; and it could mean the end for Kieran Gibbs.

If he is willing to stay and play second fiddle with Arsenal he will likely be able to; but if he wants to re ignite his career – the exit door might be the only option.