Carl Jenkinson’s good form on-loan at West Ham United last season looks to have earned him a contract extension at Arsenal, according to ESPN.
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The report claims the Gunners are keen to tie down the England U21 international to a new long-term deal before sending him out on loan next season in order for him to continue his development.
With Mathieu Debuchy and Hector Bellerin above Jenkinson in the pecking order for the right-back berth, and Calum Chambers also competing for a place, it would be best for all parties if the England international was loaned out again and the situation could be revisited in a year.
The 23-year-old made 32 league appearances for the Hammers last season and they are reportedly one of a number of Premier League clubs chasing his signature this summer.
Southampton are understood to have made contact as they might need a replacement for Nathaniel Clyne, who has been linked to Liverpool [via Independent Sport], and Sunderland have agreed a loan fee with the North London outfit. However, Jenkinson is understood to be keeping his options open.
His future is likely to be decided after the Three Lions’ involvement in the UEFA U21 European Championships is over, and Jenkinson will be hoping to avenge their opening group game defeat by Portugal when they face Sweden on Sunday evening.