Flamini wants new deal
Arsene Wenger will be desperate to keep a hold of Mathieu Flamini
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Thursday, 24, Jan 2008 09:50
Arsenal midfielder Mathieu Flamini is hopeful of signing a new contract at the club with his current deal expiring at the end of the season.
The Frenchman has established himself in the Arsenal midfield alongside Cesc Fabregas after spending a couple of season on the fringes. He has also made his debut for France thanks to his excellent performance for the Gunners.
But Arsenal are thought to be eager to tie up the 23-year-old to a long-term contract as he will be a free agent in six months time.
"I'm talking with the club. I am very happy and have some close friends here," said Flamini. "I really hope that I will be staying and I'm very optimistic about it.
"Arsenal is my priority and I hope that everything gets sorted out because I love this club - the atmosphere is amazing, the new stadium, the supporters, everything.
"We are creating a new story here and I want to be part of that story," added the defensive midfielder.
Flamini managed to displace the experienced Gilberto Silva in the Arsenal midfield, and although he does not always get the headlines like team-mates Fabregas, Tomas Rosicky, and Alexander Hleb, Flamini understands he is key to the team's success.
"I see it as a compliment to be seen as a defensive midfielder, protecting the defence so that we can win the ball and use it. I do it with pleasure," said the former Marseille midfielder.