Arsenal urged to sell Ozil in January to pursue Serie A star

Former Premier League goalkeeper Shaka Hislop feels Arsenal should cash in on Mesut Ozil in January rather than losing him on a free at the end of the campaign.

The German international has shown no signs of extending his contract beyond next summer, and Hislop suggests that the club should move in for Inter Milan's Joao Mario as a like-for-like replacement.

He told ESPN: "At only 24-years-old, this makes sense. A like-for-like swap positionally. As good as Mesut Ozil has been, I’m not sure he’s worth the money that he’s been asking for or was even on the table.

"I put this down as a hit, I think it makes sense for player and club. Both players and club. I think it makes sense, like-for-like swap."

Inter president Erick Thohir recently admitted that the Nerazzurri could make an approach for Ozil in the New Year, but they are unlikely to discuss a deal for Mario, who remains an influential player.

Ozil has not had the best of times in the Gunners shirt this term, and he has yet to contribute a goal or assist in the club's campaign.

The World Cup is currently nursing a minor knee injury, and Arsene Wenger has confirmed that the 28-year-old will miss Sunday's Premier League clash against Brighton & Hove Albion.