Mesut Ozil's Arsenal contract talks 'slow down' but Arsene Wenger remains hopeful

Arsene Wenger has not given up on the possibility of Mesut Ozil signing a new contract with Arsenal.

Ozil, who has entered the final year of his existing deal, has so far turned down an offer in excess of £250,000 a week to commit his future to the Gunners.

Despite the chance to double his wages — he earns £130,000 a week — the 28-year-old has joined Alexis Sanchez in running down his contract and will be free to negotiate with overseas clubs from January 1.

However, when asked if he was hopeful of the Germany midfielder signing a new deal, Wenger said: “Yes, of course. Contract talks have slowed down a little bit since August 31 because we need a little breather and to focus on the competition, but we will slowly get back into that.”

While Manchester City led interest from a number of top European clubs to sign Sanchez, Ozil’s suitors were far fewer in number, with Turkish club Fenerbahce one of the few to indicate an interest.

However, the absence of a transfer fee is likely to ignite greater interest in Ozil, who appeared likely to sign a new deal at one stage but has chosen instead to see how the team progress over the coming campaign.

Barcelona were linked with a late swoop for Ozil, with reports in Spain claiming the Catalan side were quoted a £50million fee. Arsenal denied those stories and say no formal contact has been made between the clubs, but it remains to be seen whether Barca would consider picking up Ozil on a free transfer next summer.

Ozil’s situation will inevitably be reviewed later in the year, as will the case of Jack Wilshere, who also has less than 12 months remaining on his deal. Wilshere is in line to start tonight’s Europa League group stage opener against Cologne, but his future at the club is unclear.

New Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson has long been an admirer of Wilshere from his four years in charge of England and could look to move for the 25-year-old midfielder if the Gunners decide not to offer him a new contract.

Wilshere opted against leaving Arsenal this summer in an effort to revive his career and, while he is open to moving abroad, having spoken to a host of European clubs both this summer and last, the possibility of continuing his career in London would also appeal.