Mathieu Flamini is set to put pen-to-paper on a new five-year deal with Arsenal, according to reports in France.

The France international was keen to leave the North Londoners at the end of last season after finding it difficult to hold down a regular place in his favoured central midfield position.

However, the 23-year-old chose to stay with The Gunners, and this campaign he has demonstrated his quality, forming an impressive partnership with Cesc Fabregas.

With Flamini's current contract set to expire next summer, L'Equipe claims that negotiations are under way over a new five-year contract.

The tenacious midfielder has missed Arsenal's previous two games with a thigh injury, and boss Arsene Wenger will be hoping he returns to fitness in time for the clash against Chelsea on Sunday.