Arsenal fans will turn back on club if they fail to keep Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil, says ex-star Paul Merson

• e-mail

Arsenal fans will turn their back on the club if they cannot keep Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez. 

That is the view of former Gunners striker Paul Merson, who has said the club must do everything in their power to tie down the pair to new contracts.

Both Ozil and Sanchez - who appeared in a relaxed mood today as he posted a video of himself training on Instagram - are in the final 18 months of their current deals at the Emirates, and boss Arsene Wenger has insisted he will not sell either of his star assets, even if they refuse to put pen to paper.

Paul Merson says Arsenal must do everything they can to keep Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil

Ozil has been in scintillating form for Arsenal this season, scoring eight times in 19 matches

Sanchez has flourished this season as the main striker in Arsene Wenger's side

However, Merson believes the loss of Arsenal's star double act could lead to a mass boycott from fans in north London.  

'They need to get these two players signed up,' said Merson on TalkSport.

'They are their best players by a mile and, if they don't sign them up, I don't know where Arsenal go from there.

'You wouldn't buy a season ticket. What's the point if you are going to sell these kinds of players?

'It would be a worrying time for Arsenal. They pay top dollar these fans so they need to see top dollar players.'

It is reported that Sanchez, who currently earns £130,000 per week, and Ozil, who takes home £140,000, are both looking to double their wage package. 

Sanchez was in a relaxed mood today as he posted a video of his training on Instagram

Wenger says he is doing everything he can to keep his two prize assets at the Emirates

When asked about the situation on Thursday morning, Wenger said: 'I believe we live in the world where Sanchez and Ozil have a lot of money and can choose where they play. 

'We will do the maximum we can for every single player. These players have 18 months left. They will stay for 18 months and hopefully much longer. 

'I can't give any assurances. They have 18 months and are completely committed. Beyond that we will try and extend the contracts but I cannot make a subject of that. That's a normal part of negotiating. The less you talk about it the better it is.' 

Paul Merson believes fans will turn their back on the club if both the Chilean and German leave