Arsenal to offer new deal to star as transfer rumours escalate

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Arsenal are set to offer Francis Coquelin a new contract after he impressed last season, reports the London Evening Standard.

The 24-year-old came to fore in important victories over Manchester United and Manchester City last season after winning a place in the first team. He had been on loan at Championship side Charlton Athletic until part-way through December, but returned and was one of the first names on the team sheet by May.

Wenger said of Coquelin and fellow breakthrough star Bellerin, “Bellerin is one of the players who has emerged last year and had a very good season.

“Bellerin and Coquelin were two players who we did not necessarily plan to come through last season, although they both have to confirm their ability this season.”

By the end of the campaign the Frenchman had made 30 appearances, and now the real question is over who manager Arsene Wenger is going to play alongside him, rather than whether Coquelin has a future at the Emirates Stadium.

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Santi Cazorla played in the position towards the end of last season, but is now being linked with a move to Atletico Madrid [Daily Mail]. This could mean the Gunners will look to bring in a central midfielder, and a few have been linked with moves to the Emirates Stadium in recent weeks and months.

Juventus star Arturo Vidal has been linked with the North London club, but he is also a target for Bayern Munich [Metro]. The 28-year-old was a vital part of the Bianconeri’s Serie A and Coppa Italia wins, as well as their run to the Champions League final. The Chile international also helped his country to win the Copa America.

The Gunners have also been rumoured to be close to a move for PSG star Thiago Motta [Metro]. Although 32-years-old, the Italy international’s composure and poise could well help Arsenal as they attempt to win the Premier League next season before a more permanent solution is found.

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