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Nemanja Matic – Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain swap is no-brainer for Arsenal

Chelsea's Nemanja Matic waves to fans after the game (REUTERS)
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Arsenal reportedly want Nemanja Matic in exchange for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain – and it’s a no-brainer.

Eleven years ago, Arsenal received £5 million and William Gallas in return for Ashley Cole.

Initially it seemed like a good deal, but given how Ashley Cole won a Premier League, FA Cup (four of them, to be specific) and Champions League titles in West London, while Gallas wound up a laughing stock, it could be said that the Gunners lost out in that move.

But are the North Londoners about to get revenge? If reports from Sky Italia are accurate, they might. According to the Italian publication, Arsenal are interested in Nemanja Matic and are willing to offer Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in return.

Arsenal's Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain looks dejected

Arsene Wenger has been waiting for Oxlade-Chamberlain to come good for the best part of six years but it’s not happening for the 23-year-old, who has a paltry nine goals in 129 Premier League appearances for the Gunners.

Nobody doubts his potential, but consistency is a major problem for the England international and if Arsenal can swap Matic for him then it would be a fine deal.

Matic, 28, has helped the Blues to two Premier League crowns in his three years at Stamford Bridge and there is no argument as to who the more polished player is.

Arsenal need an experienced, solid figure in midfield and the Serbian could be perfect and if this deal goes through then Wenger might finally get his own back following the Cole saga.

Chelsea's Nemanja Matic in action with Hull City's David Meyler