Arsène Wenger says he has made a financial “sacrifice” in deciding to risk losing Alexis Sánchez on a free transfer next summer, with Arsenal’s sporting prospects coming ahead of any off-pitch concerns. Sánchez is likely to depart without a fee unless a new contract is agreed with the club – a situation that Wenger admits has not progressed. But we have to make a choice between efficiency on the field and financial interest, and most of the time if you can find a good compromise it’s better. “Look, let’s not be wrong, it’s not an ideal situation on the financial side and it demands some sacrifice,” he said. “But first of all it doesn’t mean the players who are in the final year of their contract will not extend their contract.

Source: The Guardian August 16, 2017 09:41 UTC