Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has confirmed he will be leaving the club on a free transfer this summer.
The England midfielder has been at the club for 17 years but will be a free agent at the end of the month.
The 26-year-old decided to opt for an exit from the Emirates after being told by newly appointed manager Jack Wilshere that he would not be guaranteed regular first-team football.
Wilshere took to Instagram to post an emotional farewell to the Gunners fans.
He wrote: “I can confirm that I will be leaving Arsenal when my contract expires at the end of June.
“Following a number of extensive conversations with those at the club, and in particular a recent meeting with new manager Unai Emery, I felt that I was ultimately left with little choice but to make the decision that I have due to purely footballing reasons.
“As has widely been reported, I, along with my representative have been in talks with the club for a number of months with a view to signing a new contract to extend my stay at the Emirates.
“My intention throughout these discussions has always been to remain and Arsenal player. I have been on the books at Arsenal for 17 years and have always felt part of the fabric of the club. Such was my desire to stay that I had in fact recently agreed to sign a financially reduced contract in order to commit my future to the club.
“However following my meeting with the new manager I was made aware that although the reduced contract offer remaining, it was made clear to me that my playing time would be significantly reduced should I decide to stay.
“I am sure everyone can understand that at this point in my life and career I need to be playing regular first team football and following my meeting with My Emery I cam away feeling that it would be very difficult to do so at Arsenal.
“Given this, I feel I have no option but to pursue other opportunities in order to progress my career on the pitch.
“I have experienced some incredible times at Arsenal and have met friends that will last a lifetime. I leave with memories that will stay with me forever from my time at the club. From making my debut at such a young age, to playing in the Champions League and of course winning two FA Cups in consecutive seasons, there are just too many highlights to mention.
“There will be the opportunity to talk properly when the time is right but for now I would just like to thank everyone at the club for everything over the past 17 years, in particular Arsene Wenger and his staff, all of my teammates over the years, everyone at the Academy for helping me to fulfil my dream and of course the fans, who I have always shared such a special relationship with.
“I will never be able to truly repay the love, faith and belief that the fans have always shown in me. It’s meant so much to me and my family over the years and I hope you are able to celebrate the success you deserve in the coming years. Thank you.
“I would like to place on record my respect for Mr Emery and my appreciation for his honesty and candor, and I wish him, the team and the club all the very best for the future.
“I’m feeling fit, sharp and strong and will be working tirelessly to ensure I am in peak condition ahead of the new season.”
The latest development will serve as a transfer boost for Galatasaray and Fenerbahce.
Turkish-Football have reported both sides as being interested in a move for the midfielder.
Besiktas meanwhile have pulled out of talks with Wilshere’s representatives after €8 million-per-season salary demands.
Wilshere has attracted interest from Southampton, West Ham, Wolves, Sampdoria and AC Milan according to the Mirror.
With no shortage of suitors the midfielder has several options to pick from.
Out of the clubs being linked Galatasaray are the only side that can guarantee Champions League group stage football next season.
