Arsenal’s Spanish midfielder Mikel Arteta is reportedly looking for a long-term contract.
According to the Spanish paper Elgoldigital, Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta is considering his options and could be tempted to leave the club this summer.
The 31-year-old’s contract is the main issue, with its expiry date set for the following summer of 2015.
It is common for players in their early thirties to be looking at more security given the likelihood of their peak years being behind them. Players tend to want 4-year deals, whereas clubs are more content with a 2-year deal with the option of a third – a situation which can cause uncertainty.
Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta has been a regular for the Gunners this season, forming a solid partnership with fellow experienced midfielder Mathieu Flamini. In his 16 Premier League starts, he has maintained a 92% pass completion rate and has given the Gunners’ midfield some added bite – making 67 tackles and 38 interceptions.
There is no doubt that the former Everton man is enjoying a fine season, but can he maintain his current standards over the next few years? It is a question which Arsenal need to take into consideration.
Elgoldigital claim that Arsene Wenger has confirmed his interest in looking for a new central midfielder, whereas Arteta has re-evaluated his current situation.
In the prospect of a long-term contract elsewhere, the Spanish paper believe that Arteta – who is reportedly already considering his future in London – could leave the club this summer.
With Arteta turning 32 next month, Arsene Wenger will need to make a tough decision over the summer. It would be imprudent to allow his contract to run the course and risk losing him for nothing in 2015, bearing in mind the Spaniard won’t find it difficult to attract potential suitors.
Should Arsenal offer their vice-captain a satisfying long-term deal? Perhaps his performances over the next three months and Arsenal’s success this season will ultimately influence Arsene Wenger’s decision.
image: © wonker
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