Peter Henry
Jack Wilshere tonight confirmed that he will be leaving Arsenal when his contract expires on the 30th of June.
The England international has been with Arsenal since he was a kid, and made his first-team debut way back in 2008 as a 17-year-old.
Wilshere was soon heralded as the most gifted midfielder of his generation, but consistent injury problems have meant that he has never really been able to fulfil his undoubted potential on a regular basis.
He has been locked in contract negotiations with Arsenal for several months, but he took to social media tonight to confirm that he will be ending his long association with the North London club.
Wilshere was desperate to remain at the Gunners however, and was prepared to take a pay cut, but it seems that after discussions with the clubs new manager Unai Emery it was made clear to him that he would only be considered a fringe player next season.
Premier League clubs Everton, Newcastle, West Ham and Crystal Palace are all lining up deals to sign the talented midfielder on a free transfer, with Serie A sides Juventus, Sampdoria and AC Milan also keen on England’s one time golden boy.
Soon after Wilshere made his annoucement Arsenal posted several messages of their Twitter account paying tribute to the 27-year-old and wishing him well in the future.
For your love, for your commitment and fighting spirit, for THAT Norwich goal, for the FA Cups, for the 2013/14 goal of the season, for the 2014/15 goal of the season, for the 197 appearances, for the 17 years and for just being you…
THANK YOU @JACKWILSHERE ❤️#GoodLuckJack pic.twitter.com/bcHCPcxqpn
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) June 19, 2018
?#GoodLuckJack pic.twitter.com/qSZJppDolF
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) June 19, 2018
A simply iconic goal ?#GoodLuckJack pic.twitter.com/6GVF6FEIRX
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) June 19, 2018
Thank you for everything, @JackWilshere – and all the best for the future#GoodLuckJack https://t.co/yVH6dvF93n
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) June 19, 2018