Arsenal boss Arteta blunt on Nketiah transfer talk; reveals his goalkeeper plan

Mikel Arteta Arsenal

Mikel Arteta was blunt and straight to the point on Monday when he was asked whether Eddie Nketiah would leave this month.

The Arsenal striker has been linked with a move away this month with West Ham understood to be keen.

The London Evening Standard and The Guardian have both claimed Nketiah is at the top of David Moyes’ wanted list.

The 21-year-old striker is in his final 18 months of his contract at Emirates Stadium.

West Ham have asked Arsenal about a possible deal, according to the papers. But the Hammers have reportedly been quoted a fee of around £25m – £30m to sign the prolific England U21 striker.

Asked whether Nketiah will leave at Monday’s news conference ahead of Thursday’s date with Crystal Palace, Arteta replied: “No.”

The Gunners boss did though say his is very much in the market for a goalkeeper.

It could be either a loan or short-term deal and if completed could result in Alex Runarsson exiting on loan.

Arteta said: “We are assessing the situation in the three positions in the goalkeeping area, and we will find a different solution probably in this winter.”

The Athletic have reported that Arsenal are looking to offload back-up goalkeeper Runarsson just four months after signing the Iceland international.

Arteta is on the hunt for support for Bernd Leno and said: “There’s nothing yet,” when asked about the Runarsson talk.

Arteta was also asked about Mesut Ozil’s future. The club’s top earner is understood to have agreed a deal to sign for Fenerbahce, while there is also an MLS offer on the table.

 

 

Arteta not watching Ozil’s Q&A

“My understanding is that nothing has changed from the last press conference. That Edu and the club are having some conversations about the near future and the long-term future. And when we know something we will announce it,” said Arteta.

“I knew when I made the decision the consequences that we could have. We still have to try to find the right solution for the player and the club.”

Ozil is holding a Q&A on Twitter later on Monday about his situation, but Arteta will not be watching.

Arteta said: “He’s done it in the past. It’s something that he does to engage with his fans and try to keep everybody informed, so I’m not surprised.”

The Spaniard though confirmed he will not be taking the time to follow the conversation.

“I’m sorry but I don’t have Twitter. I don’t follow Twitter,” he added.

READ MORE: Arteta confirms Arsenal man’s form has led to surprise new contract