Top News

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has spoken about the growing speculation over a possible move for Julian Alvarez as the summer transfer window heads into its hectic closing stages. The Gunners boss also offered an important update on the futures of Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli, with both players looking increasingly likely to leave north London.

Arteta addresses Julian Alvarez speculation

Arteta kept his cards close to his chest over the club's reported interest in Atletico Madrid forward Alvarez. With the summer transfer window now in its final week, Arsenal are widely expected to strengthen in attack, and the former Manchester City star has emerged as one of their main targets. Even so, Arteta would not confirm whether any official move is being made. Arsenal's chances, however, have been helped by Atletico making it clear they will not sell the forward to his preferred destination, Barcelona.

Speaking to reporters in his pre-match press conference before Monday's meeting with Aston Villa, the Spaniard was clear in his position on players from other clubs. When asked directly about reports in Spain claiming Alvarez had ignored a phone call from him to avoid returning to the Premier League, Arteta replied: 'Don't go there! I'm not going to make comments about players from other clubs.'

Arteta also explained what he looks for from possible new signings behind the scenes. Asked whether players coming in must be fully committed to joining Arsenal, the manager said: 'Publicly, I never ask them! I think it's more privately, to get the feeling that they feel something unique, an attachment, a feeling, that they really want to join us and they have that desire to come and be part of our family.'

Gabriel Jesus nearing Emirates departure

While much of the attention is on possible arrivals, the north London club are also preparing for major exits. Jesus, who joined Arsenal from Manchester City in the summer of 2022, has still not played for the Gunners this season. After a campaign last term disrupted by injuries, in which he made only 27 appearances in all competitions and scored six goals, he was notably absent from recent training sessions as transfer speculation around him intensified.

When asked why the Brazil forward had not taken part in the latest sessions, Arteta spoke openly about the matter and suggested it was linked to squad management as well as the player's own future. The Arsenal manager said: 'It's something to do with the numbers we have in the squad at the moment and the way we are managing that situation individually with all the players who have some personal situations, whatever they are, I think it's clear.'

Martinelli linked with Saudi Pro League move

In a development that has caught many supporters by surprise, Martinelli is also said to be close to a shock departure. The 25-year-old Brazil winger, who left Arsenal training early amid increasing uncertainty over his future and was omitted from the squad for the 3-0 wins against Manchester City and Coventry, is moving closer to joining Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal in a record-breaking deal worth more than £50 million before next week's deadline.

Arteta did not avoid the reality of Martinelli's situation and confirmed that talks are ongoing over the player's future. He said: 'That's another personal situation that we are dealing with. Everybody knows and recognises how much we love Gabi. Whatever the outcome is, it will be because everybody agrees to that.'

Konsa ready for Arsenal debut against former club Villa

New signing Ezri Konsa could be set to make his Arsenal debut against former club Aston Villa after taking part in full training this week. Despite the added attention that comes with facing his old side, Arteta insisted he has no concerns at all about sending the defender straight into the match.

Speaking about Konsa's fitness and readiness before the game at Villa Park, the Gunners boss said: 'He's available. He's been training really well, and I think he will be available for selection.' Arteta also dismissed any suggestion that the emotional aspect of the fixture could be an issue, adding: 'If I see something different in the player, maybe I question that. The way I've seen Ezri since day one, knowing his personality really well with all the feedback that I get from all the people that have worked with him, that's nothing that concerns me.'