Arsenal defender preparing Bundesliga return next summer

Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker has reportedly discussed the possibility of rejoining Werder Bremen, according to Bild (via Sky Sports).

The 32-year-old, who racked up 104 international caps for the defending World champions Germany, has failed to feature for the Gunners in all competitions so far this season due to a serious knee injury.

Photo: Marc Atkins / Offside.

Club captain Mertesacker, who is out of contract next summer following the expiration of his current deal at the Emirates Stadium, is claimed to have talked about a possible return to the Bundesliga outfit by current Bremen skipper, Clemens Fritz.

He told Bild, “We’ve talked about it [a return to Bremen]. It would be a good thing for the club.”

The former Germany international centre-half, whose first-team spot under Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is under threat following the £35m summer signing of fellow German Shkodran Mustafi, has admitted he will consider his future at the club from January, when he will be able to discuss pre-contract terms with a new club.