Mikel Arteta says he will discuss a new contract at Arsenal when the transfer window shuts at the end of this month.
The Spaniard's deal expires next summer, but he has suggested it is only a matter of time before he agrees a new deal.
“The focus has been on the transfer window and we had quite a lot of things to do, to discuss," Arteta told the club’s official website. “We are on it [the new contract] and we will take care of that at the right moment.”
With the transfer window closing on 30 August, reports suggest Arsenal are close to recruiting Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino, while striker Eddie Nketiah has been linked with a move away to Nottingham Forest. Arteta is also ready to react to any other opportunities for signings, or offers for Arsenal players.
“Especially in the last week you better be alert because there are a lot of surprises that can come for many different reasons, and we are prepared,” he said.
“I expect Eddie to train with us today and be prepared for tomorrow, and then whatever happens, it will happen if it’s good for everyone."
Asked about Merino, Arteta said: “You know that I cannot talk about any player that is not with us. There is still time in the market, both ways, for other managers and other teams, and you can tell it is the end."
Arteta hails Timber's versatility
One of Arsenal's signings last summer, Jurrien Timber, endured a nightmare debut campaign in 2023/24 after suffering an ACL injury at the start of the season, and Arteta is pleased to have the fit-again Dutchman back in action.
"He can play in various positions. His versatility is one of his biggest strengths," said Arteta. "He’s been out for 11 months and it’s great to have him back. He played some quality minutes the other day, like Alex [Oleksandr Zinchenko] did as well. I think Alex was really good as well, especially in the first 60 minutes against Wolves.
"Having the capacity in the squad to change things around and find other things that the team needs in that moment is something very valuable."
Arsenal will hope to continue their winning start to the season when they travel to Aston Villa on Saturday evening.
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