Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is reportedly looking to leave Beşiktaş in the upcoming January transfer window, with a return to England firmly on his agenda.
The 31-year-old midfielder, currently with the Turkish club, is eyeing moves to either Sheffield United or Southampton, according to reports from Sabah, via Sports Witness.
Seeking a New Challenge
After joining Beşiktaş last summer, Oxlade-Chamberlain appears ready to move on, reportedly dissatisfied with his current situation. While there was interest in his services during the previous transfer window, the offers have not materialised this time around. This has left the former Liverpool and Arsenal star continuing his search for a new club ahead of January.
Among the potential destinations, Sheffield United and Southampton are seen as viable options. Oxlade-Chamberlain has ties to Southampton, having come through their academy before making his name in the Premier League. The Saints, however, sit bottom of the Premier League, and it remains uncertain whether they could persuade the midfielder to join their relegation battle.
On the other hand, Sheffield United, currently leading the Championship, may offer a more promising prospect. A move to the Blades could provide Oxlade-Chamberlain with an opportunity to contribute to a team on the rise and potentially secure Premier League promotion.
Beşiktaş Open to Departure
Beşiktaş are reportedly open to letting Oxlade-Chamberlain go in January, with the club keen to free up a spot in their foreign player quota. His departure would allow the Turkish side to strengthen their squad during the same transfer window. However, Oxlade-Chamberlain has already turned down loan offers from several Turkish clubs, including Eyüpspor, Antalyaspor, and Hatayspor, indicating his firm desire to return to English football.
Alex Oxlade Chamberlain
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain began his professional career at Southampton, making 36 appearances and scoring nine goals. He then joined Arsenal, where he played 132 matches and netted nine goals. In 2017, he transferred to Liverpool, contributing 11 goals in 103 appearances. In 2023, he signed with Beşiktaş, where he has scored four goals in 20 matches. Internationally, he earned 35 caps for England between 2012 and 2019, scoring seven goals.
Writer’s View
A move back to England would be a logical step for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain at this stage of his career. While Southampton offers a sentimental return to his roots, Sheffield United’s position at the top of the Championship could provide a more competitive environment. Both clubs would benefit from his experience, but his final decision will likely depend on where he sees the best opportunity to reignite his career.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
