Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has backed "hugely talented" Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to continue improving his all-round game, amid suggestions that he is wanted by Premier League rivals.

The England international has been linked with both Liverpool and Chelsea this summer, the latter of whom are reportedly prepared to hand over £25m for his signature.

Wenger is happy with Oxlade-Chamberlain's development at the Emirates Stadium following a strong finish to the 2016-17 campaign at wing-back, backing the 23-year-old to step up another level as he enters the final 12 months of his current contract.

"I think in his career he had some bad moments because he had some small injuries," he told reporters. "Last year he was much more stable. Personally, I think he is a hugely talented player.

"He is on the way up and he will continue to move up because that potential is there. He is today very conscious of his qualities as well, which he was not always, and I personally believe he will be a very great player."

Oxlade-Chamberlain featured 29 times for Arsenal in a variety of positions last season, but he has repeatedly pointed out that he favours a central midfield role.