Alexis Sanchez is ‘definitely’ staying at Arsenal according to Gunners defender Per Mertsacker
German defender says the Chile hero hates holidays and will be in a rush to get back to work
ALEXIS SANCHEZ is definitely staying at Arsenal, says Gunners captain and coach Per Mertesacker.
The German has taken the bold approach of insisting his team-mate is not going to force a move away from the Europa League contenders.
Manchester City, Chelsea and Bayern Munich would all like the Chile hero and Arsene Wenger doesn’t sound too confident he will stay much longer.
The Gunners goal machine is entering the final year of his contract – like Mesut Ozil – and has so far shied away from agreeing an extension and pay rise.
When asked by Fox Sports if he thinks Sanchez will stay, the defender - who will become the club’s academy manager when he retires next summer - said: "Yes, definitely.
"We have a strong squad and we do not want to lose any players.
"Even in their final contract year we need them. We cannot afford to lose them.
"If you're talking about championships, to keep our best player is key.”
The sought-after striker is not on Arsenal’s current pre-season tour of Australia and China.
After competing in the Confederations Cup he has been granted extended holiday to recover.
And Mertesacker reckons he will be hating his vacation and champing at the bit to get back in Gunners action.
He said :"I think he was impressive in the Confederations Cup.
“He's now on holiday, so it's quiet in terms of conversations.
"But he's a warrior on the pitch. I think he wants to come back as quickly as possible – he hates holidays, he hates to calm down.
"I'm looking forward to playing alongside him in my last season and he thinks the same.”