Leeds United Considering A Move For Ex-England Star Keen On Premier League Return

Former Liverpool and Arsenal midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain says he is ready to return to the Premier League – with Leeds United interested.

The 35-times capped ex-England star had his contract with Turkish club Besiktas terminated earlier this year.

Since then, he’s been training with Arsenal’s under-21s, featuring in games against Manchester United and Watford.

Oxlade-Chamberlain said Arsenal’s mentality has impressed him since his return to the Gunners’ London Colney.

But still only 32, the Southampton academy graduate insists he still has plenty to offer at the highest level.

Taking inspiration from other veterans enjoying a return to form later in their careers, Oxlade-Chamberlain has made clear his intentions to play in the Premier League once more.

And Leeds United have now emerged as a leading candidate to sign him.

Oxlade-Chamberlain Has More To Give Amid Leeds Links

With his time in Turkey brought to an abrupt end, the Ox is hopeful of joining a Premier League club as soon as possible.

Speaking to The Athletic, he said: “I feel like I can add value on the pitch but also show the right way to train, the right way to act on and off the pitch.

“I’m in the bracket now where I’ve been lucky enough to play for top clubs, win things and work with top managers.

“I know a lot more now than I did when I started out.”

And the recent success stories of fellow Premier League veterans such as former Liverpool teammates Jordan Henderson and James Milner, as well as Danny Welbeck, have shown Oxlade-Chamberlain what is still possible.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is back training at Arsenal as he plots his next move

The 32-year-old will predominantly work with the Under-21s as he looks to maintain his fitness. pic.twitter.com/BUn9gybcbR

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) November 3, 2025

“The perfect example. It shows you that, if you look after yourself and work hard, you can still be effective,’ he added.

“And knowing Welbz, I just know the value that having him and James Milner – two very different characters – will bring to that dressing room in terms of the standards they set.

“In some aspects, I don’t feel any older than I did at Arsenal. I struggle to think of myself as 30.

“I’ve always thought you don’t retire before you’re 35, but I guess I’m into the business end of it now where you’ve got a lot more perspective on everything and you have a lot more reality thrown at you than when you’re 21.

“I want to play. I don’t feel old. I’m fit, and I’ve still got that hunger.”

A Rapid Fall From Grace After Leaving Liverpool

One look at Oxlade-Chamberlain’s career honours tells you just how successful he’s been.

A Premier League and Champions League winner at Liverpool, he also lifted the FA Cup three times with Arsenal.

He’s won 35 caps for England, but has not featured since 2019.

And after leaving Liverpool in 2023, his career took a rapid nosedive.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s contract with Besiktas has been terminated ❌

Where will the former Arsenal and Liverpool midfielder end up next? pic.twitter.com/g7ZmD6428A

— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) August 27, 2025

A long-term thigh problem cut short his opening season at Besiktas, with manager Giovanni van Brockhorst freezing him out during his second season.

Since leaving Turkey, he’s been training with Arsenal’s under-21s.

But a return to the Premier League now looks on the cards, opening the door for Leeds to bring in a vastly experienced operator.

Why Oxlade-Chamberlain Would Suit Leeds United

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain would be an extremely smart fit for Leeds United this season, both on and off the pitch.

His experience in the Premier League would be invaluable for the dressing room during a nervous relegation battle.

And he would add a calming presence in midfield, something Leeds have severely lacked.

Oxlade-Chamberlain’s versatility remains one of his biggest strengths. Able to operate as a dynamic number eight or ball-carrying ten, he can easily adapt to Daniel Farke’s system.

Leeds have been crying out for leadership and depth through the middle, especially given the congested winter fixture schedule.

Available on a free transfer, he represents a low-risk, high reward option with little to no downside.

Given he is actively seeking a Premier League return, and with Leeds desperately in need of a player fitting his profile, a move in the coming weeks feels like a win-win for all parties.