Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has emerged as a potential target for Brentford this summer.
According to The Mirror, Brentford are amongst the clubs interested in signing free agent Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in this transfer window. Saudi Arabian clubs and Besiktas look set to rival the Bees for the player’s services.
Brentford are willing to offer Oxlade-Chamberlain a one-year deal, and an opportunity to rebuild his career, much as they did with Christian Eriksen recently.
Oxlade-Chamberlain has spent the last the last six seasons with Liverpool, but only managed 146 appearances for the Reds, as injuries have plagued his career. The 29-year-old left Anfield when his contract expired at the end of last season, having won a Premier League title and the Champions League in his time on Merseyside. He can also boast three FA Cup winners’ medals from his time with Arsenal. It has been a career of silverware and frustration so far.
Former Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger had huge faith in Oxlade-Chamberlain, once saying, “I believe he is a hugely talented player who is on the way up…he will be a very great player,” as quoted by Metro.
Should Brentford sign Oxlade-Chamberlain?
In terms of pure talent, Oxlade-Chamberlain could be a star at the Gtech Community Stadium. However, Thomas Frank will be well aware that the risk in signing the 35-cap former England international isn’t related to his ability. Oxlade-Chamberlain’s fitness record and proneness to injury means that he simply can’t be relied upon in the long term. The Bees are clearly seeking to mitigate this risk by only tabling a one-year contract.
If Oxlade-Chamberlain is willing to take the short-term deal on fair wages, then he would absolutely be worth the punt for Brentford. Frank’s side often lacked a creative punch and goal threat from the middle of the park last season. Oxlade-Chamberlain would provide that, bringing drive, dynamism, and an eye for goal with him.