Arsenal linked with Germany defender Mertesacker

Berlin: Werder Bremen central defender Per Mertesacker is negotiating a possible move to a foreign club and has been given a day off international duties to hold talks, Germany coach Joachim Loew said on Tuesday.

German media have reported Mertesacker could be close to a transfer to Arsenal, who were crushed 8-2 by Manchester United on Sunday, but Werder have refused to comment. "Last night I told the player I am giving you a free day and I expect he will come back this evening. I know there was a specific offer from a club," Loew told reporters as his side prepared for Friday`s Euro 2012 qualifier against Austria. The Germany coach refused to disclose which team Mertesacker was negotiating with. Bureau Report