Arsene Wenger 'hopeful' of Jack Wilshere signing new Arsenal contract

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has urged midfielder Jack Wilshere to commit his future to the club by signing a new long-term contract.

Reports had emerged claiming that the North London outfit are ready to offer the 20-year-old a new deal, which would make the midfielder one of the club's highest earners.

"[Wilshere] has always been very committed to this club and I hope he will show that," said Wenger. "There is only one way to show that and it is to commit your long-term future to the club."

Wilshere, who still has two-and-a-half-years left on his current deal, is also believed to be in line to take the Arsenal captaincy from defender Thomas Vermaelen.