'I can't talk and won't talk' – Arteta tight-lipped over imminent exit of key midfielder

Mikel Arteta is one of the highest-paid coaches in world football in 2023

TRANSFERS 'I can't talk and won't talk' – Arteta tight-lipped over imminent exit of key midfielder

Kiplagat Sang • 21:51 - 26.05.2023

The manager also laid out what he expects the club to do in the coming transfer window.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has remained tight-lipped over the reported imminent exit of Granit Xhaka.

The Swiss international is rumoured to be on his way to Bayer Leverkusen, but the Gunners’ boss has stressed he will not say anything about possible exits.

"I can’t talk and won’t talk about the future of any players," Arteta told the press on Friday.

"We have to wrap the season up, do what we have to do, and then plan for next season."

While failing to comment on Xhaka’s move, the Spaniard discussed the club’s plans for the transfer window.

"We have to nail the transfer window," he said. "We have to nail everything we do.

"Seek excellence in everything we touch and participate. We are looking for people who can have a big impact at the club. Competition will be even harder next season. This season was the hardest in my 22 years.

"In order to do that, we have a promising plan to reflect, take a step back, make sure this is the right one, and go again with more determination and hunger in our tummies to go again."

While planning to bolster his unit in the transfer window, Arsenal have already tied down Bukayo Saka and Aaron Ramsdale to new long-term contracts.

"Great news for the club. He has done a great job, like everyone who has participated," Arteta said about Saka’s deal.

"[Saka is] a crucial player for us. He represents our club in the best possible way. He is part of the plan. At the moment, we are in a strong position to be able to do that.

"We decided he was obviously one of the key players at the club and wanted to secure his future. We are able to do that. He’s extremely happy, and so are we."

On the final Premier League day, the North London side will face Wolves.

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