Per Mertesacker fighting for Arsenal future

Arsenal are reportedly evaluating the performances of experienced centre-back Per Mertesacker following his average showing in the league this season. The former German international has been a key member in the Gunners backline since his move from Werder Bremen in 2011.

A report from The Times claims that the Gunners hierarchy will be closing monitoring the form and fitness of Mertesacker in the coming months before deciding on whether he is worthy of an extension.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has preferred to play Laurent Koscielny and Gabriel Paulista as his centre defensive partnership of late.

Mertesacker has a year left on his existing deal at the Emirates.