Wenger delivers verdict on Sanchez/Ozil reports

Matt Stead

Arsene Wenger has had his say on reports linking Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil with Arsenal exits.

Reports were rife on Thursday morning that both players could leave the Emirates, with negotiations to extend their contracts stalling.

Both Sanchez and Ozil have 18 months remaining on their contracts, and are thought to be demanding higher wages in order to commit their long-term futures.

Chelsea are monitoring the situation with regards to the Chilean forward, while Arsenal are open to selling Ozil next summer if he does not sign.

Speaking at his press conference on Thursday, Wenger was instantly asked about the futures of his influential duo.

“Eighteen months is quite long in football you know,” he said. “They have 18 months contract and are completely committed and will do well as long as they are here.

“Beyond that we will try to extend their contract. But I can’t make a subject of that in every press conference.

“The less you talk about it the better it is.”

“It’s a repetition of the same things.

“You’re always asked the same things. But that doesn’t quicken negotiations, the decision process.

“I’m not the only one who can decide.

“In this case it’s between two parties. On my side, the best position is to negotiate.

“These players will stay for at least 18 months. Negotiations are private. We don’t always need to explain.”

Asked whether reports that Sanchez had been offered £400,000 a week to play in the Chinese Super League, the Frenchman replied: “I believe it yes, why not? But why should you go to China today when you play in England?