Mesut Ozil has established himself as one of the world’s finest playmakers in his three-plus seasons at Arsenal, yet the Gunners run the risk of losing the German midfielder if Arsene Wenger doesn’t sign a new contract before this summer.
[ FOLLOW: All of PST’s PL coverage ]
With each individual’s current deal set to expire over the next 20 months — Wenger’s this summer, Ozil’s in the summer of 2018 — the latter’s long-term future is dependent upon a resolution to the former’s ongoing contract saga, according to a Goal.com report.
Ozil, who tallied 19 assists in 35 league games last season, is expected to become Arsenal’s highest paid player once he signs a new contract, but won’t do so until Wenger, said to be the deciding factor in his decision to move to the Premier League as the Gunners’ club-record signing in the summer of 2013, does the same.
[ MORE: Top 5 PL storylines — Mourinho returns to Stamford Bridge ]
According to the Goal report, Wenger has already been offered a new contract, which would see the legendary Frenchman’s tenure at the club extend beyond the 21-year mark next fall. He is expected to wait until the end of the 2016-17 season before making a final decision.
Considering the tumult at Manchester United since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure in that same summer of 2013 (three managers in four seasons), Ozil is extremely wise to remain patient and let things play out with Wenger. Should he sign a five-year contract tomorrow, and Wenger decides to retire this summer, it’s anyone’s guess who might replace him.
