Arsenal have been tracking the Bayern Leverkusen midfielder Lars Bender in the last few weeks. The player could be signed for a reported £ 17 million in the summer. He play as the defensive midfielder for the German club. This transfer interest has started speculation about the future of midfielder Mikel Arteta. Manager Arsene Wenger determined that the future of Arteta is a major concern. The Spaniard, who came from Everton in an £ 10 million deal, only has a contract up until 2015. Wenger says that it is looking highly unlikely that Arteta will renew the deal since he might want a lengthier contract.
However, at 32 years of age already, Wenger says that Arsenal are unlikely to offer anything beyond a one-year extension. Further, the club’s policy of having only in place the squad is likely to come in the way of Arteta receiving a contract extension. The 32-year-old has been an ever present for Arsenal since joining from Everton. He has vast experience of playing in the Premier league. Wenger was speaking ahead of the home match against Newcastle united. This will be a very tough match for the gunners according to the Frenchman even though Newcastle come into the match after a disastrous run of form.
“I like Mikel Arteta because of his quality, his focus, his commitment and his ‘winner’ attitude. I have big respect for what he has achieved this season. He is at that difficult age, but he is very conscientious, very professional and he has a couple of years left, yes,” said Wenger regarding Arteta’s future.
“You know that Newcastle have quality, so of course we have to prepare like we will face a Premier League battle. The exciting thing in the Premier League is that everybody fights for every game and we have to prepare for that,” said Wenger regarding the upcoming match against Newcastle.