Per Mertesacker has revealed that talks will be held soon with the club over a new contract but that much depends on his ability to return from injury.

Out since the start of the season, Per is due to return in the new year and has been working with the German national team physio, Klaus Eder, to get back to fitness.

In an interview with the German press, Mertesacker was asked about his expiring Arsenal contract.

“Since the contract expires in summer, there will certainly be talks soon,” he said.

“Of course it also depends on whether I get back on the pitch well. If I am completely fit, I would like to hang for at least a year. 

“We feel very comfortable in London, and I feel a great appreciation in the club.

“I can not say that [I want to return to Werder or Hannover]. 

“I’m currently fixed on the idea to extend at Arsenal. Of course, my wife and I are playing with the idea of going back to Germany. We will decide in due course. 

“There are many things involved. Am I still healthy enough? Do I really want to play Bundesliga again?”

It is clear that, as Per says, the club are waiting to see how he recovers from the knee injury he picked up in pre-season before deciding on any contract offer.

It would seem likely that, barring any major problems with his knee, that he will be offered at least one more year to allow Rob Holding to mature some more.