Calum Chambers has cast doubt on his Arsenal future after refusing to speak on the subject.
The 22-year-old defender is currently on international duty with England Under-21s at the European Championship.
Having enjoyed a “valuable experience” on loan at Middlesbrough last season, the youngster has been linked with a £15million move to Newcastle.
]Everton are also believed to be interested in the star.
However, after helping the Three Lions to a goalless draw against holders Sweden the Evening Standard claim he told reporters that he did not wish to comment on his plans for next season.
Since leaving the Gunners for the Riverside last season he has watched from afar as Rob Holding emerged as the new bright young prospect in the Arsenal defence.
Nacho Monreal was also shifted to centre-back and performed well towards the end of the campaign, prompting Arsene Wenger to suggest he could be used there on a long-term basis.
Despite Boro’s relegation from the Premier League Chambers was still one of their top performers.
His displays have sparked interest from other top-flight clubs with Rafa Benitez’s Newcastle leading the chase.
Calum Chambers factfile
- Calum Chambers, 22, was born on January 20 1995 in Petersfield, England
- He graduated through the Southampton academy after joning the club aged seven
- Chambers made his senior debut on August 28 2012 in a League Cup clash against Stevenage
- He made 25 appearances in all competitions for Southampton before his departure in 2014
- Arsenal signed him for a fee that could rise to £16million
- Chambers was called up to the senior England squad in August 2014 and made his debut the following month against September
- He has won three senior caps for the Three Lions
- Chambers joined Middlesbrough on a season-long loan in the summer of 2016 but was unable to prevent them from suffering relegation
Although Chambers remained tight-lipped on his future, he was willing to discuss the impact Arsenal captain Per Mertesacker has had on his career.
He told Kicker: “In the last few years he was my mentor.
“I’ve never seen such a professional, dedicated player, I’ve learned from him every day.
“He kept me on track, reminded me of the little things that brought you where you want to go. He’s a great guy.
“To learn from such a player and such a personality – I could not have done better. I just got better because I could train at his side every day.”