In a significant development in the football transfer market, Celtic have reportedly secured the signing of former Liverpool and Arsenal midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain on a free transfer, according to renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano. This move comes as a blow to Arsenal, who had been considering the veteran player as a potential short-term replacement for their injured star Mikel Merino.
Arsenal's Missed Opportunity in the Transfer Window
Arsenal experienced a notably quiet January transfer window, opting not to bolster their already formidable squad despite possessing a depth that many Premier League clubs envy. However, this decision has been complicated by the recent injury to Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino, who is set to miss the remainder of the season due to a significant setback.
Merino has been a crucial figure for the Gunners, contributing important goals and solid midfield performances, making his absence a considerable concern for manager Mikel Arteta. In response, Arsenal explored options to fill the void, with Oxlade-Chamberlain emerging as a potential candidate after training with the club to maintain his fitness.
Arteta's Comments on Squad Reinforcement
When questioned about the possibility of signing Oxlade-Chamberlain on deadline day, Arteta acknowledged the need for solutions. He stated, "Of course, when you lose a big player like this in the squad with four months to go and all the competitions to play for, you need to look and we need to do everything that we possibly can to see if we have a player that is available. If we don't, we keep what we have."
Arteta further emphasised the challenges of finding a suitable replacement, adding, "At this level, especially for four months, you have to be a player who has the capacity to adapt immediately and impact the team, and that's not easy. But if it was easy, we wouldn't be here. So we need to find solutions and try."
Why Oxlade-Chamberlain Chose Celtic Over Arsenal
Despite Arsenal's interest, Oxlade-Chamberlain is now poised to join Celtic, with Fabrizio Romano confirming the deal on social media platform X. Romano posted, "Celtic are closing in on Axel Oxlade Chamberlain on free transfer, all set to be completed on Friday. Six months contract agreed with former Liverpool player."
This decision likely stems from several factors. At 32 years old, Oxlade-Chamberlain may prioritise regular playing time, which could be more assured at Celtic compared to a potential bench role at Arsenal. Additionally, Celtic, currently six points off the top in the Scottish Premier League with a game in hand under interim manager Martin O'Neil, offer a competitive environment for the veteran midfielder.
Oxlade-Chamberlain's Recent Career Trajectory
Oxlade-Chamberlain has been without a club since August, following his departure from Turkish side Besiktas after a nearly two-year stint. His lack of recent match fitness and questions over his ability to match Merino's standard may have influenced Arsenal's hesitation, ultimately paving the way for Celtic to secure his signature.
This transfer highlights the ongoing dynamics in football where clubs must balance immediate needs with long-term squad planning, and where free agents can provide valuable stopgap solutions in times of injury crises.
