Real Madrid midfielder Sami Khedira has confirmed that he wants to sign a new contract with the Champions League winners, a significant u-turn on his previous position.

This will come as a huge blow to Arsenal, who have been chasing him since the summer, and were hopeful of capturing him on a cut price deal during the January transfer window.

The German international’s contract with the Spanish giants expires at the end of the season.

As a result, a series of clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea were circling him with the potential of making a move in January.

Real would have had to consider selling him for cheaper than his true value, if he continued to refuse to sign a new deal.

However, it now seems as though Khedira will spurn a move elsewhere in favour of extending his stay at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Arsenal could turn to other midfield targets as a result.

When asked about a contract, Khedira told the Stuttgart Nachrichten: “If we can reach a solution, I’ll be very happy.”

Arsenal have been handed a significant boost in their chase for Real Madrid star Sami Khedira, after it was revealed that the German midfielder has been made to train with the reserves for the Spanish giants, as reported by the Daily Star.

Khedira has been seen as a long term target for the north London side, and they were believed to have secured a move for him in the summer.

However, a switch never materialised during that transfer window.

The Gunners have been consistently linked with another move, however, and they are expected to move in January, according to repeat reports.

It does not seem as though Real are particularly keen to persuade Khedira to stay though, with the World Cup winner made to train with the reserves.

Khedira’s contract is also set to expire in the summer, which means Arsenal could be ideally placed to put together a cut price deal for him.