Mathieu Flamini is reportedly still holding out for a new Arsenal contract.

The midfielder, who’s out of contract with us in the summer, is still very much expecting to extend his stay in north London, claims Football Insider. However, if true, I don’t see much possibility of this happening.

The 31-year-old isn’t getting any younger and we now have Francis Coquelin and Mohamed Elneny in his position. Although he does add experience to the squad, his aggression on the pitch is often a liability, and his positioning leaves our midfield completely open. This is simple stuff he should know and if he hasn’t learnt it yet, I doubt he will now.

The only reason why I would perhaps see us keeping him around is his blossoming ‘bromance’ with Mesut Ozil. Keeping our playmaker happy is probably one of Arsene Wenger’s priorities. However, at what cost? A lot, if the media is to be believed.