Arsenal centre-back Shkodran Mustafi has stated his desire to see Alexis Sánchez stay at the club amid speculation surrounding the Chilean’s future.

Mustafi, 25, praised the versatile forward and described him as “extraordinary” ahead of their Confederations Cup clash between Germany and Chile this evening.

I hope he stays,” Mustafi was quoted as saying by FourFourTwo.

He is an extraordinary player, for me one of the best in the world. I have experienced few players who are as hungry as him.

As soon as he is on the ball, everyone knows something can happen.

Alexis has twelve months remaining on his existing deal at the Emirates. The 28-year-old scored 30 goals and made 19 assists in all competitions last season despite Arsenal’s failure to qualify for the UEFA Champions League.

It’s been suggested he’ll angle for a move away in search of a bigger European side challenging for major honours.

Although keen to see the forward remain alongside him at Arsenal, Mustafi will be quietly hoping that he doesn’t have to defend against his club team-mate at international level, with Alexis having picked up an ankle injury on Sunday.