Such a deal would effectively keep Dennis at Arsenal for the rest of his career. He doesn't see a move back to Holland to finish his playing days as a viable option, and his family are settled and happy in London which makes a move to any other country unlikely.

He's also reiterated that he sees his international retirement as a good thing for both him and the Arsenal. "I have a rest now during international weeks and that will make me a lot fresher, I feel I will be a lot better for it."

The only question is whether Arsenal will feel Dennis is still worth the kind of wages we'd have to pay him for those 2 years. It's not such a stupid question as it once was. We've got Kanu who can play a similar role, and players like Ljungberg and Pires who might like the chance to, too.

But hopefully that Dennis's loyalty and passion for the club will be rewarded, and we'll be seeing plenty more of the Dutch master's magic.