Arsenal is the right club for Mesut Ozil to enjoy the best years of his career with, Arsene Wenger says.
The Gunners have been discussing a new contract with Ozil, whose current deal is due to expire in 2018.
The German has been in sparkling form this season, scoring a Champions League hat-trick against Ludogorets Razgrad in midweek, and there has been speculation over his long-term future.
“We are always in touch. Mesut Ozil is 28, in the prime, and we want him to contribute to the success in the future,” Wenger said at his pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday’s home game against Middlesbrough.
“We want him to commit to the club. I believe he is at the right place.”
Wenger added that he believes both Ozil and the in-form Alexis Sanchez benefited from his decision to give them extra time off over the summer.
Meanwhile, Aaron Ramsey remains unavailable for the Middlesbrough game but could return to the squad for the trip to Sunderland a week on Saturday.
The Wales midfielder has been sidelined since suffering a hamstring injury against Liverpool on the opening day of the season.
Santi Cazorla picked up a knock against Ludogorets and will be assessed ahead of this weekend’s match.
Granit Xhaka is suspended after being sent off in the win over Swansea.
