Sanchez ‘doesn’t know’ about Arsenal future – Pires

Sanchez ‘doesn’t know’ about Arsenal future – Pires

Arsenal top-scorer Alexis Sanchez

Arsenal great Robert Pires says Alexis Sanchez has told him he’s still undecided about whether to renew his contract with the Gunners.

Pires, who still trains regularly with the first team at Arsenal’s London Colney training ground, told Chilean newspaper La Tercera that he asked Sanchez last week what his plans were in regards to extending his deal. Sanchez and Mesut Ozil both have contracts that expire after next season, but have yet to agree new deals with the club.

“I spoke to Alexis last week and asked him about his renewal. He told me he didn’t know, that he was only keen on playing,” Pires said.

The 43-year-old former winger, who won two Premier League titles and three FA Cups with Arsenal, added that he doesn’t see any signs of the standoff affecting the Chile forward on the pitch.

Sanchez is Arsenal’s leading goal scorer this season with 15 Premier League goals so far, including a cheeky penalty in the eighth minute of added time that secured a 2-1 win over Burnley on Sunday.“It’s not an issue for Alexis, the renewal. He doesn’t know what is going to happen, he just wants to play and have fun,” Pires said. “The only thing that we want is for Alexis to be at Arsenal. I hope he renews his contract because he is a marvellous player. Alexis is the car engine. I hope he stays forever.”

Manager Arsene Wenger has said he is “convinced” the club can reach an agreement with Sanchez, while the player himself has insisted he’s happy at the club, but that it’s up to Arsenal to “show confidence” in him with a good offer.