Arsenal are standing firm on their stance regarding Aaron Ramsey's contract demands as they are refusing to buckle in negotiations, The Evening Standard reports.

What's the word?

Arsenal fans hoping that the end of the transfer window would bring an end to a lengthy saga have certainly been left disappointed, as Aaron Ramsey's contract negotiations rumble on and show no signs of reaching a conclusion.

The Evening Standard says Arsenal are not prepared to meet Ramsey's current demands and have made it clear not to use the lucrative £350k-a-week deal sign by Mesut Ozil earlier this year as a benchmark for discussions, as the World Cup winner presents significantly higher commercial value.

Ramsey is seeking a major increase on the current £110k-a-week deal he currently earns at the Emirates Stadium and wants around double, the report adds, although Arsenal have made it clear they will not be held to ransom.

With the Wales international already into the final 12 months of his deal, the concern amongst supporters is that he could leave for nothing next summer.

Is Arsenal's stance correct?

Arsenal do not enjoy the same financial strengths as Premier League rivals Manchester City and Manchester United, which means the Gunners are limited on what they can offer - especially as The Evening Standard states Unai Emery has been tasked with reducing the Gunners' bloated wage bill.

However, Aaron Ramsey should be seen not be seen as expendable by the club for a number of reasons - which include the fact he is a long-serving player and is well on his way to becoming an Arsenal legend like previous stars such as Thierry Henry or Dennis Bergkamp if he stays after two FA Cup final winning goals.

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On top of that, the likelihood of Ramsey joining a Premier League rival if he leaves the Emirates Stadium is extremely high as The Sun have stated both Manchester United are keeping close tabs on the 27-year-old's situation.

Ramsey would certainly come back to haunt Arsenal further down the line if he stayed in English football and the Gunners would also be missing out on a huge transfer sum if the former Cardiff City man is allowed to run down his deal.

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