Deal News…
Our General Secretary David Miles hinted earlier this week that deals were close in the search for Alexis and Ozil’s signatures on new deal extensions, he said that things are ‘looking pretty good’.

There was more talk regarding contracts with Santi Cazorla’s definitely being extended, and L’Equipe said that Giroud, Coquelin and Koscielny have all/were on the verge of signing on long term following in the footsteps of Hector Bellerin who signed a long term deal last week.

Report: Everton 2-1 Arsenal

Per Mertes-Backer…
Per Mertesacker is back in training following six months on the sidelines with a knee injury.

He Tweeted some photo’s with the caption: “It’s been a long road but feels so amazing to be back training properly with the Arsenal boys again and I feel great!”

The BFG is still targeting a new year return after missing the whole season so far.

It remains to be seen where, in the pecking order he fits, with his German compatriot seemingly number one choice alongside Laurent Koscielny at the back…

More later, reader(s)…