Barcelona Transfer News: Chile's Alexis Sanchez Transfers To Arsenal; Details, Reactions, And More! [POLL]

In a preemptive move to possibly make space for maligned star, Luis Suarez, FC Barcelona has sent Forward Alexis Sanchez to Arsenal for a reported £35 Million.

The 25-year old Sanchez was the star of his home country, Chile in the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Sanchez had two goals and an assist in four games with Chile, sending his team to the round of 16, and scoring the equalizer against archrivals, Brazil.

After hearing the news of his transfer to Arsenal, Sanchez issued a public statement:

“I’m so happy to be joining Arsenal, a club which has a great manager, a fantastic squad of players, huge support around the world and a great stadium in London. I’m looking forward to meeting my new teammates and to be playing for Arsenal in the Premier League and Champions League.”

His new manager, Arsene Wenger could not be getting Sanchez at a better time as he will enter England with a new found confidence after his performance at the World Cup. Not to mention, he may have an axe to grind after being spurned by Barcelona.

Wegner posted the following statement on Arsenal’s website after the transfer was complete:

“Alexis will add power, creativity and much quality to our squad and we are all looking forward to him joining up with us in a few weeks. He has consistently produced top-quality performances at the highest level for a number of seasons now and we are all excited to see him integrate into the Arsenal squad.”

Sanchez arrived at Arsenal’s training complex in London on Thursday and underwent a physical and medical exam. Latin Times has learned that prior to the move to Arsenal; clubs throughout Europe were making offers to Barcelona to get Sanchez’s services. Juventus, Liverpool even Manchester United were rumored to have interest in Sanchez.

Sanchez started his professional career in Chile where he played for Cobreloa and Colo-Colo. He won two Primera League championships in 2006 and 2007. He transferred to Argentina in 2008, and again won the championship in his first season. After Argentina, he was shopped to Italy’s Udinese. Financial downfalls forced the Italian club to ship Sanchez to Barcelona shortly thereafter.

Sanchez will be able to play any attacking position for Arsenal, but it is rumored he will return to his preferred spot upon the right wing. We anticipate that it will take some time for Sanchez to become acclimated with the move to the players and teams in the English Premier League, but once he is comfortable, the sky is the limit for this star and Arsenal becomes an instant contender for the EPL title.

Below are reactions to the transfer and a poll for you to weigh in on how well you think Alexis will do with Arsenal: