Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has addressed the transfer speculation surrounding Myles Lewis-Skelly, who has been linked with a move to Manchester United this summer. The 19-year-old scored for Arsenal in Thursday's friendly against Como, which ended 1-1, and has been tipped to leave the Emirates Stadium following the arrival of Bruno Guimaraes.
Arteta's Response to Speculation
When asked about the situation after the match, Arteta said: "Ah, emotional? Well, it's good to score a goal. You should be emotional when you score a goal. He's a very emotional player. Remember when he did all the gestures on the pitch [mimicking Erling Haaland]. So I'm not going to talk about any speculation. If there is a speculation about our play, it's a good sign. That means that we attract attention and they're doing a good job."
Arsenal have denied that Lewis-Skelly is for sale, and the player is believed to be happy in north London with no desire to leave. United are reportedly interested in the midfielder, who can also cover at left-back, as they seek a third new midfielder after signing Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans.
Arteta on Transfer Plans
Arteta also made clear that Arsenal are looking to add to their squad rather than sell. He said: "Well, there is more that we want to do. Because every time we have an opportunity to improve the squad and bring more quality and depth to the squad, we need to do that. But we are actively trying to do so. The thing in the market, it doesn't just depend on you. And we are very clear on that. But the approach, the will and the desire of the club, that's unquestionable. And we want to try to do that. But we cannot promise that we're going to do it. Because, again, it doesn't only depend on us."
Nwaneri Praise
Arteta also expressed satisfaction with Ethan Nwaneri, who is reportedly admired by Galatasaray. He said: "He's been really good. Probably what happened on the field, on his loan in Marseille, wasn't what was expected. And there was a lot of noise and change around the club. But he looks different. He looks more mature. He's incredible at that. It's what six months can do to you. A different experience for the boys. To be on your own, to go through tough times. And just to witness that there's another part of football that you have to be good enough to cope with. And I'm really happy with what he's done in pre-season."
