Alexis and Ozil exits would be a 'huge setback' for Arsenal, admits Iwobi

The Gunners continue to see two key figures run down their current contracts, with both heading towards January sales or free agency in 2018

Losing Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil would be a “huge setback” for Arsenal, admits Alex Iwobi.

The Gunners continue to run the risk of seeing two key figures head for the exits in the near future.

Both Sanchez and Ozil are running down their current deals, with no fresh terms having been put in place as yet.

Arsenal were able to prevent either from leaving over the summer, with Manchester City having pushed hard for Sanchez, but they now face January sales or possible free transfers in 2018.

Iwobi hopes those situations can be avoided, telling the Sun on Sunday of the contract rebels: “When they are fit they are unstoppable. They are both capable of changing a game or a season.

“They have a big decision to make. But it would be a huge setback to lose them because from the stats you can see we do need them for their goals and assists.

“For a team like Arsenal, we need to be aiming for the top four and we need what they bring.”

While Sanchez continues to be heavily linked with a move to City, Ozil is now being linked with their Manchester rivals United.

Iwobi is desperate to ensure that Premier League foes do not get to benefit from the pair’s considerable talent, with the 21-year-old looking for Arsenal to offer enough to convince both to extend their time in north London.

The international added: “It will be great for them to stay.

“I’ve learnt a lot from them.

“Just the opportunity to even train with them has been amazing. They are two top class players with great experience having played at the top level.”

Sanchez was initially benched after missing out on a deadline day transfer, but has since been welcomed back into the fold.

Ozil, though, has now slipped out of contention, with fitness issues and tactical tinkering leaving him on the sidelines.

Throughout all of the furore surrounding their future, Arsenal have been able to steer clear of distractions to head into the current international break on the back of a seven-match unbeaten run in all competitions.