Arsenal are confident of wrapping up the transfers of Alexis Sanchez from Barcelona and Mathieu Debuchy from Newcastle "imminently," sources close to the deals have told ESPN FC.
- Barcelona release Cuenca
- Dos Santos to leave Barca
- Alves to discuss Barca future
The transfer fee for Sanchez is reported to be close to 35 million pounds and the Chile forward was en route to Arsenal on Thursday to complete his medical, according to Mundo Deportivo.
Debuchy's move to Emirates Stadium has been under discussion for some time, with the finishing touches to the transfer set to be concluded before manager Arsene Wenger returns from Brazil, where he is working in the media at this summer's World Cup finals.
Former Arsenal defender Lee Dixon appeared to confirmed the moves when he revealed he had spoken to Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger about the double signing after meeting up with his ex-boss in Brazil.
Just spoke to Arsene. He's very happy about Sanchez and Debuchy
- Lee Dixon (@LeeDixon2) July 10, 2014
Sanchez's representatives are reported to be in England to finalise personal terms on a four-year deal with the FA Cup holders, although the formal announcement of the deal may not be made until next week while Barcelona negotiate terms on Luis Suarez, according to The Guardian.
The 25-year-old was instrumental in helping Chile to the round of 16 at the World Cup before being knocked out by Brazil. He rejected the chance to move to both Liverpool and Juventus this summer, but is expected to be in Arsenal's ranks in time for the preseason match versus the New York Red Bulls on July 26.
Arsenal central defender Ignasi Miquel told La Xarxa that the Premier League club is a great fit for Sanchez.
"Alexis would fit perfectly, he would adapt perfectly," the Spanish native said. "It would be great to have Alexis at Arsenal because he is a great player. Alexis with Chile had much more freedom that he did at Barca. I think he has adapted well at Barca, he has had matches where he has had a chance to shine. I hope Alexis and Arsenal can agree. That is why I need to stay."