Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has played down speculation surrounding Eberechi Eze’s move to the Emirates, insisting the Crystal Palace midfielder is not yet part of his squad despite reports of a completed medical.
Eze is believed to be closing in on a £67.5 million switch that would make him one of Arsenal’s most expensive signings in history. But when quizzed about the deal during his pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday night’s Premier League clash with Leeds United, Mikel Arteta refused to be drawn.
“Nothing to comment, I can never talk about any player that is not part of our club yet,” the Spaniard said.
Speaking more broadly about the kind of players Arsenal look to bring in, Arteta highlighted commitment and character as key factors.
“That’s the number one, that they want to be with us and feel something special to come to us,” he explained. “Then the person, what personality they are going to bring, and then the rest comes. I think we have done very well in the last few years to create this group of players and this spirit in the team.”
While fans eagerly await clarity on the Eze situation, Arteta confirmed a setback with one of his current stars.
German midfielder Kai Havertz has been ruled out of the Leeds fixture after sustaining an injury during last weekend’s 1-0 victory over Manchester United.
“He is certainly not fit for this match. Unfortunately, he picked up an injury,” Arteta revealed. “We don’t really know yet the extent of it. I think we need a bit more time and more tests. After that, we will have more clarity about the next steps.”
The Arsenal boss also confirmed that new signing Christian Norgaard will not be in the matchday squad, while defender Ben White remains a doubt.
“Christian won’t be in the squad,” Arteta said. “With Ben, let’s see how he reacts and what we decide. But Christian will be out for another week or so.”
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