Mesut Ozil’s Arsenal future could be decided by intermediaries who are working to find clubs that would be able to afford to sign the midfielder.

Arsenal are thought to be open to offers for Ozil, who has missed as many games as he has played for the club under head coach Unai Emery this season.

Ozil’s £350,000-a-week wages are the biggest obstacle to any move away, but Telegraph Sport understands middle men have been sounding out clubs over his potential availability.

There is no suggestion the intermediaries are working for Arsenal or have been employed by the club, but the club are likely to listen if a proposal is put to them.

The intermediaries Telegraph Sport are aware of have strong links to China and Italy, two countries already touted as possible destinations for Ozil.