The 29-year-old playmaker’s future has been a big source of speculation in recent months after both he and Alexis Sanchez entered into the final stages of their contracts at The Emirates.
Ozil has been linked with a move away from Arsenal but his future has not been a big source of debate during the January
transfer window, suggesting that he is likely to stay with the Gunners until the end of the season at least.
The Germany playmaker could yet decide to commit his future to Arsenal and sign a new contract with the north London side.
And former Gunner Smith has now
claimed that he’s been told that Ozil is likely to stay on at Arsenal and extend his current deal.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Smith said: “My sources tell me he is quite close to signing a new contract.
“We’ve not heard much on that and it sounds like negotiations have gone on behind the scenes and he will sign.
“He’s been a different player the last couple of months when he’s been fit. He’s really been putting in a shift, he looks energised, more enthusiasm than he did
have and he looks the player that we all think he can be on a consistent basis.
“If he does sign you just want him to continue that. You hope he is not playing in this fashion because he wants to win a new contract.
“He’s a top player and to lose Sanchez is bad enough but if you lost Ozil as well, that bit of creativity, it would almost be a
mortal blow, a real kick in the teeth for Arsenal.”
Meanwhile, Arsenal are preparing to return to Premier League action on Saturday afternoon with a home clash against Crystal Palace at The Emirates.
The Gunners are looking to get back to winning ways after the disappointment of their 2-1 loss to Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium last weekend.
Arsenal are currently eight points adrift of the top four.