Arsenal Star hopeful of contract extension

Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker is hopeful of extending his stay at the Emirates beyond next summer. The German footballer is still recuperating from an ankle injury which he sustained in pre-season.

Recent speculation suggested the World Cup winner could leave the Gunners in the New Year with former club Werder Bremen keen on acquiring his services.

However, the 32-year-old has claimed that he is content at the Gunners, and is waiting on discussions over a fresh contract.

Summer recruit Shkodran Mustafi has been a perfect foil for Laurent Koscielny in the heart of the defence this season, and this is likely to see Mertesacker struggle for playing time once he recovers from his long-term injury.

Mertesacker has amassed over 200 appearances for Arsenal since his switch from Bundesliga in the summer of 2011.