Jack Wilshere issues contract ultimatum to Arsenal

England international Jack Wilshere is prepared to leave Arsenal on a free transfer, unless the club are willing to match his wage demands in a new contract.

The 26-year-old's deal expires at the end of the current season, and talks over an extension have reached an impasse with Wilshere not willing to take a 25 percent reduction on his £120,000-a-week wages.

Wilshere had initially told the Gunners that he would leave them on a Bosman, but according to The Sun, he has given the hierarchy another opportunity to meet his wage demands.

The midfielder had gone through a full medical test to prove his fitness during the month of December, and he is said to want a long-term deal on his current salary package.

Italian giants Juventus and AC Milan are some of the high-profile Italian clubs monitoring his situation whilst there is also Premier League interest from Everton and West Ham United.