Mathieu Flamini, the Arsenal midfielder, is to decide on his future in the next 24 hours, according to Arsene Wenger

The 24-year-old French midfielder has played a key role for Wenger’s team this season, but is out of contract at the end of the season with Juventus believed to be interested in signing the player. The Arsenal manager said he expected to find learn of Flamini’s decision by the end of April, although he has now said the matter remains unresolved.

"The latest is that we are at the end of April but it is still not sorted out. Certainly we should get an answer today or tomorrow."

He added: “I'm always positive because I believe the link he has with the club will be stronger than all the other different attractions that he can have. I know that if it's down to football then he will stay here. If it's down to football or financial resources he might not stay here. He is free to choose a different direction, everybody is free out of contract and you have to respect that."

Wenger also admitted his surprise at the news that Keith Edelman was leaving his post as managing director to seek a "fresh challenge".

"We didn't expect that and I don't know why [he is leaving]," Wenger added. "Does he go somewhere else or has he chosen a different direction? You have to respect that. He has done well in a very difficult period and everybody is conscious of that."

Wenger believed the success of Manchester United and Chelsea in reaching the Champions League final underlined the strength of the Premier League and joked: "It's an FA Cup final abroad and so that could be the 39th game that everybody looks for."