Per Mertesacker planning Arsenal stay

Per Mertesacker has moved to play down speculation that has linked him with a move away from Arsenal.

Recent reports had claimed that the 28-year-old was keen to secure a return to his native Germany during the summer transfer window.

However, the centre-back has insisted that his future remains at the Emirates Stadium.

"A change is not an issue. Our manager Arsene Wenger gives me absolute confidence, I play every game. I can think of nothing else, but to stay at Arsenal," he told reporters.

Mertesacker joined the Gunners from Werder Bremen in August 2011.