Arsene Wenger has confirmed that Arsenal are in talks with both Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil over new contracts, report The Mirror.
Wenger was quizzed about whether there are new deals in the pipeline for the industrious duo, to which he replied: “we are in touch and that is our desire.”
The Mirror note that both Sanchez and Ozil’s current contracts expire in 2018, which is leaving some fans anxious after being held to ransom by players in the past.
In August 2012, Robin Van Persie swapped the Emirates for Old Trafford after announcing that he would not sign a new deal at Arsenal. The BBC reported at the time that United paid £24 million for the Dutchman, considerably less than his actual market value. Having entered the final year of his contract, the Gunners were in no position to negotiate.
The club will likely be wary of history repeating itself with Ozil and Sanchez. The pair provided 17 goals and 25 assists combined in the Premier League last season, a direct goal contribution that has been vital in for Arsenal in keeping pace with their rivals.