Arsene Wenger has revealed that he will decide on Santi Cazorla’s future at Arsenal in January.

The midfielder is out of contract at the end of the season and, considering he’s almost 32 and about to have surgery on an ongoing ankle problem, his future at the club hangs in the balance.

Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s trip to the London Stadium to face West Ham, Wenger admitted that he needs to speak with Santi first and that no decision has been made yet.

“We can take this option (to extend his contract),” Wenger said.

“I would like to speak about that with Santi Cazorla before I speak with the press. I haven’t spoken to him. The decision will be taken in January.”

I can see an argument for extending or not extending the Spaniard’s contract. If I was to follow my head, I’d say that he’s an ageing, injury-prone player who’s taking up another midfielder’s wages. It could be a risk to keep him.

SINGAPORE - JULY 18: Arsene Wenger of Arsenal smiles at Santi Cazorla of Arsenal during the Barclays Asia Trophy match between Arsenal and Everton at the National Stadium on July 18, 2015 in Singapore. (Photo by Lionel Ng/Getty Images)
SINGAPORE – JULY 18: Arsene Wenger of Arsenal smiles at Santi Cazorla of Arsenal during the Barclays Asia Trophy match between Arsenal and Everton at the National Stadium on July 18, 2015 in Singapore. (Photo by Lionel Ng/Getty Images)

If I was to follow my heart, however, I know that there aren’t many Santi Cazorla’s out there. Wenger’s right: he IS an exceptional player and replacing him will be a tough ask.

It’s very possible that we already have his replacement in the form of Jack Wilshere, who’s currently on loan at Bournemouth. But letting go of Santi will be a tough pill to swallow.