Arsenal open Per Mertesacker contract talks

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has revealed that the club have opened contract talks with German centre-back Per Mertesacker.

The 29-year-old has become a regular in the Gunners defence despite a shaky start, which was also hampered by niggling injuries following his move from Werder Bremen two years ago.

"We are in the process of talking [with Mertesacker], yes," the French coach told reporters.

"He has one and a half years to go, so that is a long time."

The 6'6" defender scored the winner for Germany in Tuesday's clash with England at Wembley.