Arsenal are locked in talks with Alex Iwobi and his representatives over a new contract, less than six months before the start of the 2018 World Cup, according to reports.

The Sun is reporting that The Gunners are desperate to agree a new deal with the Nigerian international before he jets off to the World Cup next summer, knowing full well that his stock would rise even further if he's a success at Russia 2018.

The Hale End Academy product signed fresh terms with Arsenal last year, tying him to the Emirates outfit until the end of the 2020-2021 season, but the club are eager for him to prolong his stay after cementing a place in the first-team squad.

Iwobi's wage demands could prove a possible stumbling block as he wants to earn the same amount as other first-team regulars.

The 21-year-old currently pockets 1.56 million pounds (approximately N744 million in Nigerian currency) every year.

He has racked up 74 appearances for Arsenal's first-team, scoring 7 goals and notching 12 assists since his debut against Sheffield Wednesday in October 2015.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : arsenal.com