Arsene Wenger ties key Arsenal star, Bacary Sagna down to long-term deal

Arsenal defender Bacary Sagna is on the verge of signing a new three year contract, worth £80,000 a week, according to ITV Sport.

Appearing alongside the headline ‘Gunner Forever’ in France Football magazine, the right-back, whose current deal is set to expire in the summer, looks set to commit his future to the Gunners despite having been linked with a move to both Manchester City and his native Paris Saint-Germain in recent weeks.

Wenger has previously stated that he was keen to secure a deal for such an important player and it now appears his persuasive abilities have paid off, with the 30 year-old having a change of heart and opting to stay in North London.

Sagna, who signed from Auxerre in 2007, has become one of Wenger’s most reliable performers in a tight defensive unit and, although the defender is entering the twilight of his career, would have represented a huge blow had he been tempted to join a domestic rival.

As recently as yesterday, the defender told the Evening Standard he was focused on ending the club’s trophy drought this year.

“It is better for us because we can keep going forward without being under pressure. Everyone is talking about Chelsea and City more than us but we believe in ourselves.

“The other teams know we have not won a trophy for a long time and maybe they think we will drop points. They do not see us lifting trophies but that is good for us because we can keep working hard,” he said.

However, with so many rumours surrounding Sagna’s future, Arsenal fans will be wary until it has been officially announced. As such, a long deal that would take Sagna way into his thirties is an uncharacteristic move by Wenger.

Bacary Sagna has averaged 6 defensive actions per game, the lowest of Arsenal’s first choice back four this season.

France Football reporting that Sagna is likely to sign a 3yr Deal at Arsenal. 80k a week. pic.twitter.com/jI25th09MJ

— Mr. Arsenal (@OsmanZtheGooner) January 28, 2014