Gossip: Wenger's picked This star as Arsenal's new captain and it's a surprise choice

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has reportedly chosen Santi Cazorla as his new club captain for the 2016/17 season.

The Gunners boss has had a decision to make on choosing his new skipper after the departure of Mikel Arteta at the end of the last campaign.

Per Mertesacker had taken the role for much of last year due to Arteta’s absence through injury, but it seems he has fallen behind in the running with Wenger now.

According to the Daily Star, the Frenchman has chosen another Spaniard to lead the side, showing a huge amount of faith in midfielder Cazorla, who also missed much of last season after getting injured midway through.

Petr Cech had been a leading contender to take the armband, but Wenger’s preference has been for an outfield player to take on the role, Cazorla joined Arsenal back in 2012, and is one of the most experienced players in this current side.