Mikel Arteta 'still hopeful of agreeing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang deal'

Mikel Arteta has reportedly not given up hope of persuading Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to sign a new deal at Arsenal.

The Gabon international, who leads the scoring charts for the Gunners once again this term, is due to be out of contract at the Emirates Stadium in a year's time.

Aubameyang revealed at the weekend that he is awaiting the offer of fresh terms from the North London outfit, with Real Madrid, Barcelona and Inter Milan closely monitoring his situation.

Despite the uncertainty over the ex-Borussia Dortmund striker's future, however, the Evening Standard claims that Arteta is hopeful that his captain can be tempted into staying put for the long term.

Arteta is said to have taken charge of contract talks and has made it clear to Aubameyang that he is imperative to his future plans at Arsenal.

The Gunners return to Premier League action after a three-month hiatus on Wednesday with a trip to reigning champions Manchester City - a match that Aubameyang is likely to start.