Lauren: I'm not leaving Arsenal - yet

Arsenal midfielder Lauren has dismissed reports he has agreed to join Real Madrid at the end of the season but admits he could still be on his way out of Highbury.

The Cameroon international’s contract is up next summer and he has yet to agree a new deal with the Gunners.

Real chairman Fiorentino Perez has been quoted as saying: “Lauren will play for Real Madrid next season. We have him signed.”

However, the 27-year-old told The Sunday Times: “I’d like to stay here. I feel good here and think Arsenal’s the best place to be.”

Lauren did warn, though, that he could be forced to look elsewhere if the Gunners do not come up with a favourable offer.

“Well, you can get injured and not be able to play any more, so you have to think of other things as well,” he added.

“Arsenal know what I need and how to cope with this situation. From next month I can speak to other clubs, but I’m not thinking about that. I’m leaving everything to my agent.

“I’m just focusing on my game, and whatever happens, I’ll keep focused and be professional through to May. If I do my best on the pitch, everything else will fall into place.”