Arsenal identify Manchester United forward as Alexis Sanchez replacement

Arsenal have reportedly identified Anthony Martial as a shock replacement for contract rebel Alexis Sanchez. The France international has been in impressive form for Manchester United this season, contributing five goals and five assists in all competitions.

Sanchez, 28, has been reluctant to enter into contract negotiations over the past year, and Arsene Wenger is mulling over his sale January rather than losing him for nothing - when his contract expires next summer.

According to The Mirror, former target Martial has been earmarked as a suitable replacement with the 21-year-old yearning for regular gametime in the Premier League.

The former Monaco man has been restricted to regular appearances off the bench under Jose Mourinho this term while playing on the left side of the attack.

Martial is said to prefer playing in the centre-forward role, but he has so far failed to do so with Romelu Lukaku getting the preference after his strong start to the campaign.

Mourinho turned down a potential loan approach from Inter Milan during the summer transfer window, and he is unlikely to entertain thoughts of Martial leaving Old Trafford in the near future.