Per Mertesacker has played down speculation linking him with former clubs Hannover and Werder Bremen and insists his top priority is securing a new deal at Arsenal.

The World Cup winner is yet to play a competitive game for the Gunners since being confirmed as club captain after injuring knee ligament damage in pre-season.

In his absence, Shkodran Mustafi and Laurent Koscielny have impressed as a defensive partnership which, combined with the back-up provided by new boy Rob Holding and Gabriel, has led to suggestions that Mertesacker’s days at the Emirates could be numbered.

“A renewal with Arsenal is my absolute priority,” the BFG told Spox when reflecting on the situation.

“But we have not made an appointment yet to discuss a new deal. Arsenal are my top priority and everything else is just speculation.”

Mertesacker’s current deal ends this summer, meaning he could talk to interested foreign suitors as soon as January.

The German also lavished praise on boss Arsene Wenger, claiming the Frenchman deserves respect having completed 20-years in charge at Arsenal.

“Wenger should be immune to any public criticism. He has been at Arsenal for 20 years, helping the club develop step by step,” he added.

“Where else do you still see this? You should look at the bigger picture and he deserves nothing but respect.

“The media are too quick to criticise in my opinion. It is all about results. One day they are celebrating a big win over Ludogorets and then three days later there is criticism after a draw with Middlesbrough.

“How much will the team, the coach and the club have changed during these three days to merit such a different opinion?”