Jack Wilshere pours doubt on Arsenal future with revelation he is ‘no closer’ to agreeing new contract

Wilshere impressed as Arsenal earned a 2-0 first-leg victory in Milan but his future is in doubt

Jack Wilshere applauds fans after Arsenal’s win in Milan (Getty Images)

Jack Wilshere’s future at Arsenal has been plunged into further doubt after the midfielder revealed that he and the Gunners are “no closer” to agreeing an extension to his contract that expires in three months time.

The former England man has spent prolonged spells on the sideline over the past two seasons and Arsenal are understood to have offered Wilshere significantly reduced terms in order to stay as part of a more incentive-based package.

That stance is not understood to be flexible and while Wilshere would like to stay and has that contract offer on the table, the upcoming summer of change at the Emirates may also be the time he ends his lifelong association with the club.

Arsene Wenger has said he feels “positive” on Wilshere’s future with Arsenal and that the ball was in the midfielder’s court.

But that is no longer the case, according to the 28-year-old playmaker:

“Things have changed since then,” he said.

“We’re no closer to sorting anything out.”

And Wilshere insisted that Arsenal would continue to fight for the top four even with a gap developing between them and the Champions League places.

“We can’t just give up in the Premier League. We’ve got to keep fighting and get as many points as possible so that if anyone does slip up, which doesn’t look likely, we are ready to pounce. If we keep performing like this, we’ve got a chance.”

Wenger has said he is confident Wilshere will stay (Getty)

But it remains the case that winning the Europa League continues to offer the club its best chance of returning to continental football’s top table next season.

“There are some good teams left in it but we’re confident in ourselves. We’re not through yet. This tie isn’t over. We have to finish it off and then you can get anyone in the draw.”