Arsenal Set Terms Over New Deal for Veteran Midfielder - Report

Arsenal midfielder Tomas Rosicky must make 25 appearances this season in order to win a new contract, according to Goal.com.

The Czech Republic international has already made 11 appearances in all competitions this season but missed the weekend defeat to Manchester United due to illness.

Rosicky joined Arsenal from Borussia Dortmund in 2006 but has endured a series of injury plagued campaigns but is set this season to reach 200 appearances for the Gunners.

The 33 year old's current contract expires at the end of this season and he is fighting along with the likes of Bacary Sagna, Lukasz Fabianski and Nicklas Bendtner for a new deal.

Despite playing an infrequent role for Arsenal, Rosicky is constantly relied upon by Arsene Wenger in the club's big games, having started in the wins over Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund.

Even though a new deal is still to be discussed, Rosicky's role at Arsenal is such that he can be confident of winning a new deal but the club's ultimatum means he must prove his fitness over the coming season.

Upon signing a new deal in April 2012, Wenger added: "I've always been a big admirer of Tomas' abilities and am delighted he's chosen to commit his future to the club.

"I believe he is an exceptional player, a natural footballer who is technically top class.

"He plays the style of football we champion here and shares completely our philosophy. He is always ready to work for the sake of the Club, always willing to put the team first.

"I have huge respect for him. Everyone at the Club looks forward to Tomas' continued contribution in the coming seasons."

Rosicky is among five players whose contracts run out in the summer, but the ex-Dortmund man appears the most likely to win a new deal, with talks regarding Sagna's future having not taken place while Bendtner's position in north London appear untenable.

Arsenal's delay in offering Rosicky a new deal exposes them to losing the veteran midfielder in either permanently the January transfer window, or via the signing of a pre-contract agreement in the New Year.

Arsenal's delay in offering Rosicky a new deal leaves them exposed to offers to the veteran midfielder leaving on a permanent deal in the January transfer window, or signing a pre-contract agreement ahead of a summer move.