Arsenal Manager Arsene Wenger said on Thursday that Alexis Sanchez is close to a return to training.

The Chilean international, who helped his country to a runner-up performance at the recent Confederations Cup, has been linked with a move away from the north London club, but he remains in Wenger’s plans.

The Frenchman’s side are preparing for the weekend’s Emirates Cup, which will also feature Sevilla, RB Leipzig and Benfica.

Wenger also said he is satisfied with his team’s preseason and the overall ‘stability’ in his squad.

“Alexis and Mustafi, their first training session will be on Sunday, the day we play against Sevilla. They are practising on the day, yes.”

Arsenal will take on reigning Premier League champions Chelsea in the Community Shield on August 6 in a repeat fixture of the 2017 FA Cup final which Arsenal won 2-1.