Wenger hopeful of keeping Pires
Arsene Wenger remains hopeful he can thrash out a deal to keep Robert Pires at Arsenal when they sit down for contract talks next month.
The veteran France midfielder’s current deal runs out in the summer, which means he is entitled to talk to other clubs from January 1.
Pires, 32, has already been offered an extra 12 months – as previous older Arsenal players such as Dennis Bergkamp have in the past – but wants the security of a two-year contract.
Wenger acknowledges the impact of the midfielder since his arrival from Marseille in July 2000, and indicated the club may be willing to discus a compromise over a longer term.
“Robert is an important player, and has done tremendously well for us,” said the Arsenal manager.
“He has always been a big part of our team.
“He is in and out [at the moment], but you expect that during this period, and at that age sometimes as well you need a breather.”
Wenger added: “In January, we will sit together.
“We will try to have a good chat.”
On the length of the deal likely to be discussed, and whether it would be only a one-year offer, the Arsenal manager stressed: “Up to now, yes [that has been the policy] – but you can always have exceptions.”
