Per Mertesacker has admitted that Alexis Sanchez must make his own decision over his future at Arsenal and revealed that he’ll do that next year after another season with the club.
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Mertesacker stands by what Arsene Wenger has said and is confident that Alexis will at least see out the remainder of his contract at Arsenal. However, he also acknowledged that he doesn’t know whether the Chilean will sign a new deal and that only Alexis can make that decision.
“I am very confident (he will stay),” the big centre-back revealed.
“It’s his decision. If he feels good, comfortable, he can play with freedom. He has his qualities. You cannot find those everywhere.”
The captain continued, “I have not spoken to him. He needs a break now. He needs to relax. He has done a lot for us.
“He played almost every game last season and then the Confederations Cup. You need to leave him alone to make up his mind about what he wants to do. He has one more year here and then he makes his mind up. It’s his decision.”
The BFG’s comments also seem to confirm that Alexis won’t be signing a new deal with the Gunners anytime soon.
If Alexis doesn’t extend with Arsenal, he will leave for free next season. However, the club are probably hoping that a good season will persuade the 28-year-old to stay for longer, since his main priority is Champions League football.
The forward has been heavily linked with Manchester City but Arsenal refuse to sell to a rival.