Per Mertesacker is certain to become Arsenal's new captain following the retirement of Mikel Arteta.

The German defender wore the armband for the majority of last season when Arteta was not playing and is now set to step into the role on a permanent basis.

The Sun reports that Mertesacker's fellow centre-half Laureny Koscielny and veteran goalkeeper Petr Cech were also being considered but Arsene Wenger will offer the job to the 31-year-old.

Mertesacker joined Arsenal from Werder Bremen in 2011 and has since made over 200 appearances in all competitions for the Gunners, winning two FA Cups along the way.