Arsene Wenger confirm Arsenal board are backing his decision not to sell wantaway Chilean

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger insists it is completely his decision not to cash in on Alexis Sanchez this summer, with the tactician ready to take the risk of losing the Chilean on a free transfer next summer.

The Chile international, who returned to training earlier in the week, has less than 12 months remaining on his current deal at the North London club and is yet to sign a new deal to remain at the club.

According to Sky Sports News, he is a transfer target for Premier League rivals Manchester City, but the Arsenal boss says he wants to keep the 28-year-old forward for the forthcoming campaign and has the full backing of the Arsenal board.

While the Arsene Wenger prepares to lay down the rules with contract rebel Sanchez, he looks set to take a different approach with Jack Wilshere.

Wilshere, 25, has struggled with injury problems in recent seasons and will miss the commencement of the new season as he recuperates from a leg fracture.

The England international spent last term on loan at Bournemouth but, despite staying fit, he failed to live up to expectations at the Vitality Stadium and ended the season in and out of the squad.

Like Sanchez, Jack Wilshere has less than 12 months remaining on his current contract, and Arsene Wenger admits he must have a hard discussion with the player over where his future lies.