Arsenal want Crystal Palace attacker as Alexis Sanchez replacement

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has reportedly earmarked Crystal Palace's Wilfried Zaha as a potential candidate to replace contract rebel Alexis Sanchez.

The north London giants are bracing themselves for the departure of Sanchez, who has decided against extending his contract beyond next summer.

According to The Sun, Wenger has set his sights on pursuing the services of Zaha, who has established himself as one of the leading attackers in the top-flight.

The Ivory Coast international contributed directly to 16 goals during the previous campaign, and he has continued his good form this term, finding the scoresheet twice in just five outings.

Zaha committed his future to Crystal Palace on a fresh five-year contract earlier in May, but Wenger is still prepared to test the Eagles' resolve with a maximum bid of around £35m.

Sanchez failed to seal his proposed move to Manchester City during last summer's transfer window owing to the Gunners' failure to find a suitable replacement.