Unai Emery is urging Arsenal to retain Aaron Ramsey until the end of the season, rather than cash in on the midfielder in January.

The 28-year-old is free to talk to overseas clubs after entering the final six months of his existing contract with the Gunners, who withdrew their offer of an extension in September.

Juventus are in pole position ahead of Bayern Munich and Inter Milan in the race to sign the Wales international, with reports in Italy suggesting he is close to agreeing a five-year deal.

Juve are willing to offer Sami Khedira as part of a deal to land Ramsey this month, while Liverpool and Manchester United are reportedly monitoring the situation.

Emery is not in control of transfer negotiations under Arsenal’s new structure, with head of football Raul Sanllehi, managing director Vinai Venkatesham and head of recruitment Sven Mislintat the key figures. But while it is understood Emery was consulted on the decision to withdraw Ramsey’s original contract offer, the final call was made above his head.

Although Ramsey has started just two League games since September 29, they were against United and Liverpool and Emery believes he adds important depth to the Gunners’ squad.