Arsenal need trophies to convince Alexis Sanchez to stay, George Boateng says
Tuesday 6 December 2016 14:27, UK
Arsenal need to win a trophy this season if they are to convince Alexis Sanchez that his future lies at the Emirates, says George Boateng.
The Chile international's current deal is set to expire in less than two years and he has been involved in discussions with the club over a new contract for some time.
Sanchez, who arrived at Arsenal in 2014, is thriving in a centre forward role this season, taking his goal tally to 13 in all competitions with a clinical hat-trick in the 5-1 win over West Ham.
But Boateng believes silverware needs to be added this season if Arsene Wenger is to persuade his star forward to stay in north London.
"Let's not forget where the boy came from," he told Premier League Daily. "He came from Barcelona, a top club, always guaranteed to be in the Champions League and where he was closer to winning trophies than he is now at Arsenal.
"It's not about the money when you are a player like Sanchez, believe me. He's had a fantastic career and a decent wage for the last 10 years.
"So in his case, it's about prestige and achieving success. If Arsenal want to keep him they need to secure silverware.
"That will give them a chance to fend off interest from the European big guns if they can say to Sanchez 'Look, you can stay here and win trophies with us.' Without that, it will be difficult."
Boateng believes Sanchez has been "lethal" in a more advanced role this season, and says he is suprised that it has taken Wenger so long to adjust the Chilean's position.
"Sanchez has been amazing this season so far and his performance against West Ham just sums him up. His ability and control of the ball is just immense, not just against West Ham but in previous matches as well," the Dutchman added.
"People forget this season he has travelled all the way to South America and he comes back and gives 90 minutes on the pitch (against Manchester United) and he often either gives an assist or scores.
"I start to wonder how it has taken Wenger so long to figure out that when he plays up front he is even more lethal."
