Arsenal have told Aaron Ramsey he won't be getting a new contract offer, meaning the midfielder is set to leave the club for free next summer, a source has told ESPN FC.

Ramsey told reporters last week that he still hadn't been told why the offer of a contract extension had been rescinded by the club. But senior figures have since had a face-to-face talk with the Welshman to explain their stance and to confirm that negotiations won't be renewed, a source said.

The conversation was first reported by Sky Sports News.

That leaves Ramsey able to leave as a free agent when his deal expires next year, with a January sale unlikely. Ramsey could command a larger signing-on fee in the summer, while other clubs are not expected to put in large bids just six months earlier.

Aaron Ramsey, 27, has made 244 appearances for Arsenal, scoring 37 goals. David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

Coach Unai Emery had initially said he viewed Ramsey as a key part of his plans for the future after taking over from Arsene Wenger in May, and had urged the club this summer to secure his long-term commitment. However, Ramsey has been on the bench in recent Premier League games as he has fallen behind the likes of Alex Iwobi and newcomer Lucas Torreira in the pecking order.

Emery dodged a question about Ramsey's contract after Wednesday's 2-1 win over Blackpool in the Carabao Cup, but said he is confident the player is remaining focused on his job.

"The most important for me with Aaron -- I spoke with him last week -- is his spirit, his quality, his performance," Emery said. "He is working very well."