Arsenal boss confirms contract talks with experienced ace

Arsenal manager Unai Emery has confirmed that talks are underway with defender Nacho Monreal over a new long-term contract.

The Spain international has featured over 200 times for the Gunners since joining them in the winter of 2013 but his future has been called into question with his contract expiring in 10 months' time.

However, speaking ahead of the Newcastle game, Emery indicated that he is pleased with the performance of the former Malaga man and is hopeful that a contract extension could be finalised with the 32-year-old.

"After two months now, I can say I am happy with him. He is 32 years old, physically the performance with us, Nacho is playing with a very good level. The reason for that, for me, we need to find a new contract with him to stay together with the Arsenal team," he said.

Monreal missed the Premier League opener this term with a minor knee injury but he has participated in the three games which have followed, scoring one goal in the process.

Aside from Monreal, the Gunners are also in contract negotiations with Welsh midfielder Aaron Ramsey and Football.London has recently claimed that the club are edging closer to prolonging his stay.