Arsenal FC news: Arsene Wenger convinced Alexis Sanchez will stay after swapping text messages with star forward

Arsene Wenger has revealed he has been in constant contact with Alexis Sanchez this summer and is 'positive' he will remain at Arsenal.

Sanchez is in the final 12 months of his contract and is at loggerheads with the club over a new deal, with the Chilean said to be demanding a staggering £400,000-a-week to extend his stay.

Premier League rivals Manchester City are keeping a close eye on the 28-year-old's situation and have been tipped to launch a big-money bid for his services this summer.

But Wenger has been swapping text messages with his star forward in the close season, and remains convinced he is going nowhere.

When asked if he expects Sanchez will stay, Wenger replied: “Of course. There is not a lot to resolve at the moment with the player.

"I have spoken through text and it was very positive. My thoughts are always positive.”

Wenger was speaking in Sydney where Arsenal have kicked off their pre-season schedule.

Sanchez is not part of the squad having been given extra time off after playing for Chile in the Confederations Cup.

He will not report back for duty until the end of the month, but Wenger is confident he will be ready to start the new season.

"Players like Alexis Sanchez played the whole season, finished the season really tired and went off to play in the Confederations Cup," said Wenger.

"You can’t tell them they are not having a holiday and must come back and continue, it’s impossible.

“Usually you need three weeks but they will have a programme and can be involved after one week to ten days, and play a part in games.

“It also depends on the shape they come back in.”