Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has today confirmed that defensive midfielder Francis Coquelin is very close to finalising a new long term deal to see him stay at the Emirates.

Coquelin is out of contract at the end of the season and has experienced somewhat of a renaissance at the North London club. Since his return from his loan spell at Charlton, Coquelin has forced his way into the first team, putting in some fantastic displays in the process. He was the unsung hero of Arsenal’s clash with Manchester City in which the Gunners triumphed at the Etihad Stadium.

In his pre Aston Villa press conference, manager Wenger stated that “Coquelin is 99 per cent there” when he was asked about a deal to tie down the French man. Wenger looks eager to secure Coquelin’s long term future following his excellent form for the club.

Wenger however is not the only one who believes in the Frenchman. England international Alex Oxlade Chamberlain believes that Coquelin deserves to be back in the squad following his call back from loan.

“He's been really patient and I’m sure there’s been tough times for him since he’s been at the club,” Alex told the official match day programme. “I know everyone here has always known what a talent he’s been, it’s just been a case of the numbers and the type of personnel that we’ve had. It can be hard.”

“Since he’s come back, he’s taken his opportunities, he’s taken his chances to show how good he is and now I see him as a big part of our team. He is a really influential and key part to our success, especially at Manchester City.”

“In recent weeks we’ve seen it but the Manchester City game really showed how important he is and how good he is. Hopefully that will continue for him because it’s good for us as well."

“He’s been abroad and in the Championship but he’s never lost his quality and sometimes it’s all about luck and opportunities.”

Let’s hope Wenger can wrap up a deal for Coquelin soon, he is going to be one of the best in that position if he keeps up his current form.