Arsenal legend Ian Wright has backed Arsenal over their stance on Aaron Ramsey’s contract situation, but believes they still want the star midfielder to stay.
Arsenal and Aaron Ramsey have hit a brick wall in recent weeks over extending the midfielder’s contract, with the fans calling for the club to retain the midfielder by accepting his wage demands. But, club legend Ian Wright feels the Gunners are not to be blamed for this saga, explaining a tough stance is necessary, reports Daily Mail.
Aaron Ramsey’s contract situation has been in the spotlight for quite some time now, with the star midfielder’s deal expiring at the end of the current season. In the summer, it was reported that both the player and Arsenal were close to agreeing on a new contract, but things have taken a reverse course.
In the current scenario, it would mean that Ramsey could leave at the end of the season on a free transfer or in January on a cut-price deal, with many clubs interested including, the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea.
Reports have also suggested that Arsenal rejected an offer worth £50 million for the midfielder, which showed they were confident that a deal could be struck.
But, in recent weeks it’s been said that Arsenal have withdrawn the contract they previously offered to the midfielder, leaving a big hole on the table, with no resolution being reached between the two parties so far, which has provided Manchester United, Chelsea and other suitors a huge boost in his pursuit.
Manchester United could be interested in the Aaron Ramsey situation, and will definitely be in the front queue for his signature. As for their need of a midfielder, there is the ongoing situation of their own with Paul Pogba, whose future at the club is still on uncertain terms.
Chelsea were also interested in signing Ramsey before the season began. The Blues ended with Mateo Kovacic on a season-long loan deal but could come back for Ramsey in the January window or in the summer. In the scenario that Kovacic leaves, as well as Fabregas, who might leave the club at the end of the season, they might look at Ramsey as a long-term option for their midfield.
Many were puzzled about this situation and had blamed the club for bringing back a situation similar to those of Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil last year. However, it has been reported that Ramsey seeks a salary package that is similar to Arsenal’s top earners, who are said to be earning in excess of £180,000 per week.
“What I do like about him and what I will always give him credit for, is that he never hides, never ever hides. No matter what stick he gets, he never hides. I have to stick with Arsenal, they have to make this kind of stance, the number of players we’ve lost in this fashion. I believe that Arsenal wants him to stay, but they have to make this stance.”
Ramsey has been at Arsenal for nearly 10 years now, scoring the winning goal in two FA Cup finals. Last weekend, when he scored a sensational goal against Fulham, his arms-out celebrations must have been for the Arsenal management. Only the coming months will tell more about the situation.
It will either end with a new contract offer from Arsenal or Ramsey will end up leaving the club. It will then be interesting to see where he plies his trade next season – or even the second half of this term – with the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea, among others keen on him.
