ARSENAL boss Mikel Arteta says Mesut Ozil’s future could be decided in a matter of days amid reports he is set to sign for Fenerbahce.
Reports emerged on Wednesday that the 32-year-old was closing in on a three-and-a-half-year deal to make the move to the Turkish giants.
Arsenal outcast Mesut Ozil has been heavily linked with a move to FenerbahceCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Ozil – who is yet to feature this season having been omitted from both the Gunners’ Premier League and Europa League squads – is set to become a free agent in the summer.
And the North Londoners are keen to get him off their wage bill as they look to raise funds to strengthen their side.
Ahead of the club’s FA Cup third round clash against Newcastle on Saturday, Arteta was asked about the German World Cup winner in his pre-match press conference.
Commenting on his future, he said: “I don’t know what is going to happen. Obviously now he’s free to negotiate with other clubs.
“We will discuss internally what the best situation for him is for the near future, obviously with the player and the agent too, and try to find the best solution for everyone.”
Pressed on whether Ozil could stay beyond January, he added: “I’m saying we will decide what’s happening in the next few days.”
Arteta then claimed it would be in the interest of both Arsenal and Ozil if he was to move in January.
He declared: “If something was sorted this month, it’s because it is good for both parties, it is good for Mesut and his future, and it’s good for the club.
“If that’s the case, we will move forward, if it’s not the case the player will stay here.”
FANCY A PUNT? TODAY’S BEST ODDS BOOSTS FROM THE UK’S LEADING BOOKIES
Turkish news outlet Fanatik have claimed that Ozil is on the verge of completing a switch to Fenerbahce.
They have even stated that he will wear the No67 jersey at the Sukru Saracoglu Stadium.
His desire to wear the No67 is because that number is the start of the postal code from his family’s hometown of Zonguldak.
Ozil will then take the No10 shirt off Mbwana Samatta – who is on loan at the club from Aston Villa – next season.
⚽ Read our Arsenal live blog for the latest news from The Emirates
Mohamed Elneny shows off his skills at Arsenal training
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
