Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker has insisted that Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez are not distracted by their futures.

Both players are out of contract next summer, meaning that they will be permitted to join another club for free when the season comes to an end.

Manager Arsene Wenger recently suggested that the pair could be sold in January, with Manchester City being linked to Sanchez and Inter Milan reportedly holding an interest in Ozil.

Despite the uncertainty over the duo's futures, Mertesacker has claimed that both are fully committed to the club's objectives this season.

"Everyone has to do his job 100% otherwise they are not eligible to be on the pitch," Sky Sports News quotes the defender as saying. "As long as everyone understands that then we are fine and you won't get problems from me. If I have a different feeling then it would be addressed.

"I have no problems with players in their final year, that includes me as well. The only issue I've got is if they're not fully committed to what we're doing here. Even if you're in your final year you have to prove yourself every single day, in order to stay here or to get another contract somewhere else.

"A lot of people focus on being on long-term contracts, but that's not needed. I don't feel a dip in commitment; we're in a good front with those who have their contracts expiring."

The German will become Arsenal's academy manager when his playing contract runs out at the end of the season.