Wenger insists duo will stay and confirms interest in Leicester star

Arsene Wenger has again insisted that neither Mesut Ozil nor Alexis Sanchez will be sold by Arsenal.

The contracts of both players are due to expire next year and they are yet to agree new deals, prompting speculation that they could be sold this summer if they refuse to re-sign.

However, Gunners boss Wenger told beIN SPORTS the club have no plans to sell this summer.

He said: “They will stay at the club and hopefully we can extend their contract.”

Pressed on whether Arsenal might be prepared to let them go, Wenger replied: “No. You cannot weaken the club and weaken the team.

“You want to strengthen the team – unless you find a player of the same calibre and if they absolutely want to leave.

“I believe, at the moment, we’re not on that front. We’re focused on keeping the team together and to see how we can strengthen the team.”

Wenger also appeared to confirm his interest in Riyad Mahrez, who has been linked with a possible move to Arsenal after declaring he wants to leave Leicester City.

Wenger said: “We have not made a bid, but personally, I like the player, yes.

“I think he made a huge impact when they won the championship. Like at everybody else at Leicester, this season has been more challenging, but it doesn’t take away from his qualities.

“Have we made a bid for him? No. Not yet. No, we have not. When I say ‘not yet’ it means it could happen. It might not happen.”