Arsenal are braced to begin their pre-season campaign this morning with a clash against Sydney FC in Australia and fans will be excited to see the Gunners back in action. Naturally doing a transfer window though, there’s still plenty of anticipation surrounding potential business for Arsene Wenger’s side.
Wenger has moved swiftly to secure two top-quality additions this summer, landing Sead Kolasinac on a free transfer from Schalke and parting with a club-record sum to sign Alexandre Lacazette from Lyon, and the Gunners intend to continue spending, with Monaco’s Thomas Lemar the top of their wish-list.
Amidst all the speculation and excitement surrounding who the Gunners could bring in though, question marks remain above the head of a number of Arsenal stars- particularly Alexis Sanchez, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Mesut Ozil, all of whom have entered the final 12 months of their contract.
The Gunners face a battle to keep their starring trio in North London but Mesut Ozil handed Wenger’s side a boost yesterday, as he spoke on Arsenal’s pre-season tour and confirmed his intention to stay at the club- adding that contract talks are set for when the Gunners return to the UK.
“It is definitely my preference to stay. Once everyone is back in London, we will sit down and discuss the future. I have always said that I feel very good at Arsenal.”
“For now the most important thing is our pre-season and getting through the tour, training and getting fitness. I have always said that I feel very good at Arsenal.”
Ozil’s comments will bring a massive sigh of relief for Arsenal as it brings an end to one lengthy transfer saga and allows Wenger to focus on further challenges he faces, including luring Thomas Lemar to the Emirates Stadium and ensuring that both Alexis Sanchez and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain remain in the side.
German World Cup winner Ozil may be criticised by fans and sections of the media but it’s clear he’s a vital cog in Arsenal’s machine, whilst we could see a different level of performance from him next season following the addition of Lacazette- giving the former Real Madrid star a top-class striker to provide opportunities to.
Ozil does have to prove his worth though ahead of a new contract, which is likely to be one of the most expensive deals Arsenal have ever handed one of their players, and fans will expect a higher level of performance.