Mikel Arteta remains optimistic over Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's future at the club, expressing confidence that an agreement over a new contract will be struck soon.
Aubameyang's situation has been subject to fervent speculation for many months now, with the Gunners' talisman having entered the final 12 months of his current deal.
However, Standard Sport understands confirmation of a new three-year contract worth £250,000 a week is close.
An official announcement that Aubameyang is staying for the long-term would provide a huge boost to Arsenal ahead of a hectic 2020-21 campaign.
As well as being handed the captain's armband, the Gabon international has finished as the club's top scorer in each of the past two seasons, while his double at Wembley at the beginning of August saw Arteta's side come from behind to beat Chelsea and secure a 14th FA Cup triumph.
"I keep being positive," Arteta said on the saga during a Zoom press conference held prior to Saturday's Community Shield clash with Liverpool.
"We have had some really good talks with him and his agent and I am pretty confident that we're going to find an agreement soon. That's my feeling again."
On Aubameyang penning fresh terms providing a huge lift to Arsenal, the Spaniard added: "Absolutely, and for him as well!
"I think he should be very happy if he's able to stay at the club for a long time. I think people will be delighted with that news."
