Flamini 'decision on Monday'
by Alex Livie, 03 May 2008
Arsene Wenger has revealed he expects an answer on Mathieu Flamini’s future on Monday.
Wenger set an April 30th deadline for the France international midfielder to commit his future to Arsenal, but this has been extended due to ‘negotiation problems’.
Flamini’s present commitment is due to expire in the summer and he is being tracked by Italian giants Juventus and Milan.
Wenger has always maintained an air of confidence on Flamini, but will have a final answer on Monday.
“It will be sorted out over the weekend," Wenger told the club’s official website. "Will he stay or not? That is down to him but the deadline is Sunday, Monday latest.
"The deadline moved for negotiation problems. Only he could tell you [whether he will go or not]. For me yes he stays, but does he tell me the complete truth, I don’t know.
"Ideally I want him to stay, but he’s free. That means if you get £2 million here, £4 million somewhere else, you can go to the one who gives you four, or you can as well stay with the one who gives you two.
“He is free to make a decision and you have to accept the market. You listen to everybody in Europe and take some time, that’s why the situation has lasted a little bit. But overall he’s free to go where he wants. You have to accept that because he’s not linked by a contract.”
Wenger has moved to assure Arsenal fans that should Flamini move on, a suitable replacement will be found.
“[If he goes] we will find a solution, don’t worry," said the 58-year-old.