Talks underway: German chief reveals major Arsenal transfer discussions

BUNDESLIGA outfit Werder Bremen are looking to re-sign Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker.

Mertesacker, 32, made 210 appearances during a successful six-year spell with the German club and could return with his Emirates future in doubt.

The Gunners captain has entered the final year of his contract and hasn’t played since July after suffering severe cartilage damage in his knee.

Asked about the possibility of extending Mertesacker’s contract ahead of a recent fixture with Hull, Arsene Wenger admitted: “We have not dealt with that situation.”

The uncertainty surround Mertesacker’s future in North London has led to interest from his native Germany.

Werder Bremen sporting director Frank Baumann, who played alongside Mertesacker, told newspaper Bild that he’s interested and has already discussed the transfer with Arsenal representatives when concluding a deal for Serge Gnabry.

He said: “I can see Per at Werder.

“In the course of Serge’s transfer, we also talked about his [Mertesacker’s] future.”

Mertesacker fuelled speculation of a departure when telling German magazine Kicker that he’s considering his options.

He said: “I ask myself what would make sense if things were to end at Arsenal. Where can I be of any help? What do I want? Could I maybe return to Germany?”