THE former Arsenal ‘Invincible’ Edu says Alexis Sanchez has elevated himself into the world’s top-five players this season with a series of show-stopping performances for the Gunners.

Chile international Sanchez, who moved from Barcelona in the summer, has already scored 18 goals this season and is Arsenal’s talisman as they strive for yet another top-four finish in the Premier League.

Edu, who won 15 international caps for Brazil from 2004-5, said: “He is arguably their player of the season so far. Many say he is one of the current top five players in the world in his position.

“He has adapted very well to English football, but that doesn’t surprise me, given his talent.

“I don’t like to compare players from the past with current players as it depends on the moment they are playing, both internationally and at club level, but he is still young and will develop into an even better player.”

Edu says Brazil national boss Carlos Dunga can expect a serious test against Chile at the Emirates Stadium, North London, in a mid-season friendly on March 29.

The match takes won extra significance as Brazil secured a penalty shoot-out win against Chile to reach the last eight at the World Cup last summer.

Brazil will also travel to Chile in July, and Edu says it’s a chance for Dunga’s men to test themselves in advance.

He is relishing the opportunity to see Sanchez go up against his former Barcelona team-mate Neymar at the Emirates Stadium.

“It will be great to watch Brazil v Chile, if only for those two players alone.”

Brazil v Chile is on March 29 at 3pm at the Emirates Stadium, North London. Tickets are still available from £30 Adults/£15 Concessions at www.arsenal.com/tickets