Per Mertesacker has expressed his belief that Alexis Sanchez will “definitely” stay at Arsenal this summer, amid interest from Manchester City and Chelsea.
The Chile forward has been linked with a host of clubs after Arsenal failed to qualify for the Champions League last season, including Chelsea, Juventus, Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain.
It is understood that Sanchez would seek wages in excess of £400,000 a week, and Wenger insists that the 28-year-old could yet extend his current deal, which runs out in summer 2018.
Club captain Mertesacker, who will take over the club’s academy next year, sees keeping Sanchez as crucial to Arsenal’s quest to finish in the top-four and win more trophies.
"Yes, definitely,” he told Fox Sports when asked if Sanchez would stay at the club.
"We have a strong squad and we do not want to lose any players.
"Even in their final contract year we need them. We cannot afford to lose them. If you're talking about championships, to keep our best player is key.
"I think he was impressive in the Confederations Cup, he's now on holiday, so it's quiet in terms of conversations.
"But he's a warrior on the pitch. I think he wants to come back as quickly as possible - he hates holidays, he hates to calm down.
"I'm looking forward to playing alongside him in my last season and he thinks the same."
