In a Thursday morning back page splash, The Mirror report that Chelsea are lining up a sensational move for Alexis Sanchez in what would be a bitter blow for Arsenal fans.

What's the story?

With Arsenal struggling to offer, as we discussed earlier this week, Sanchez the kind of money that would keep him happy at the Emirates, they could be facing a battle to hold on to their star striker over the next few transfer windows.

The Mirror's report suggests that Chelsea are massive admirers of the Chilean forward. Who isn't right? The difference is that the Stamford Bridge side are willing to put their money where their mouth is and create one of the greatest attacking forces in Europe.

They reckon Chelsea are waiting for their moment and will make a move for the goalscoring Gunner should he indicate he won't be signing a new deal at the Emirates.

How big a deal is Sanchez?

Since joining from Barcelona in 2014, Alexis Sanchez has scored 55 goals in 114 appearances for Arsenal. This season his scoring ratio is reaching new heights with eleven Premier League goals in 14 games for the Gunners.

Sanchez is an assassin in front of goal and has a shot accuracy percentage of 65% in the Premier League this season, higher than any other Arsenal attacker.

Courtesy of Squawka

It's not just his goalscoring prowess that contributes to Arsenal's cause but his creativity too, having made seven assists already this season.

It's the kind of form that Arsenal could really do without losing, especially if they have ambitions to win the Premier League again.

A move to a rival would only compound the misery of Arsenal fans who have taken Sanchez to their hearts.