Nacho Monreal is yet to miss a minute of Premier League football so far this season after establishing himself as a key member of Arsène Wenger’s side.

The Spanish left-back has usurped Kieran Gibbs, who now has to settle for a place on the bench, and has become one of the most reliable and integral parts in Arsène Wenger’s side. The Gunners have the option to extend Monreal’s deal – which expires at the end of the season – by a further year, but the defender has confirmed talks about a new contract are ongoing.

“We are talking [with the club], we need to talk and reach an agreement. I wish that to happen. Of course I’d like to stay here,” the 29-year-old told talkSPORT.

By the end of the season, Monreal will be 30 and Arsenal may be reluctant to tie him down to a long-term deal. This is the last big contract he will have the chance to negotiate, so it’s no surprise to see him and his agent pushing for a deal to tie him to the club for the next three or four years.

Throughout the summer, Athletic Club were linked with a move for Monreal but it never materialised. The Spanish club can only sign Basque players, and he falls into that category but he never seemed interested in leaving Arsenal.

As one of our best and most consistent players since the back end of last season, it would only make sense to award him with a contract extension. Hopefully it is all tied up sooner rather than later.