ARSENE WENGER has revealed he will hold make or break talks with defender Mikael Silvestre about his future after admitting he fears the Frenchman could leave next summer.

The former Manchester United defender's contract at the Emirates runs out at the end of the season, meaning he could be allowed to leave for free if a new deal is not secured.

Wenger insists he is keen to keep hold of Silvestre, although he accepted the centre-back may not be happy after falling behind summer signing Thomas Vermaelen in the pecking order.

"I have a meeting with Silvestre in March," explained Wenger. "We have a common agreement to meet then and see where we go from there.

"It's linked with the number of games he gets before then. He is a remarkable influence in the squad, but he must be happy.

"Thomas Vermaelen is in front of him. Will he be happy if he does not get the games? I am not sure."

William Gallas' contract also expires in the summer, but Wenger revealed that he will sit down with the France international at an earlier date in an attempt to tie up a new deal.

"The talks with Gallas have to be a bit earlier because he plays regularly," Wenger added. "We need some experience in the dressing room."