Per Mertesacker says no one has spoken to him about a job with the German national team, and he’s happy at Arsenal.

Sky Sport in Germany reported this week that Per Mertesacker is one of two serious candidates being looked at for the DFB’s new setup, along with Thomas Hitzlsperger.

But when questioned on the topic, Mertesacker denied any contact with the national team, and he insisted he’s happy where he is.

“No, nobody has talked to me yet,” Mertesacker said. “You have to know that I’m very, very happy in London – (in terms of) family and professionally.

“I’m waiting for everything now, I don’t like to speculate. At Arsenal, I was given a lot of trust. I’m happy there for now and see what’s in store for me.”

According to the German reports, Hitzlersperger would be the replacement for former DFB managing director Oliver Bierhoff with the senior side, whilst Mertesacker would be focused on developing young talent.

In essence, Bierhoff’s job would be split between the two men to share the former managing director’s responsibilities.

Mertesacker currently has a similar role at Arsenal, overseeing the academy with the Gunners. He’s been a popular appointment at the club, representing Arsenal’s values well in public appearances and also in shaping the academy strategy at the club.

Arsenal continue to produce top talent and develop them well for first-team integration, though we’ll likely only know the extent of Mertesacker’s impact on the academy in the years to come, given youth football is a long-term game.

The club will certainly be keen not to lose Mertesacker, but he has a history with the German national team.

A World Cup winner with Germany, the 38-year-old may wish to return and help his old national side through their current difficulties. For now, he seems to be focusing on Arsenal.