Arteta avoids transfer talk amid Lewis-Skelly interest

Mikel Arteta has declined to address speculation regarding the future of Lewis-Skelly. The 19-year-old full-back has been linked with moves to Premier League rivals Chelsea and Manchester United following reports that Arsenal have offered him to other clubs this summer.

During Wednesday's match against Como, the academy graduate scored the opening goal and performed an emotional celebration. After running toward the Arsenal supporters, the player used hand gestures to appear as though he were apologising before making a heart shape. When asked about the meaning of this gesture and the player's potential departure, Arteta remained evasive.

The manager noted that the youngster is a highly emotional individual, referencing previous hand gestures made during a game against Manchester City. Arteta stated that interest in any player is a positive indicator that the club is performing well, but he refused to engage with specific transfer rumours.

Lewis-Skelly's position at the Emirates appears uncertain following the £75 million acquisition of Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle. While the versatile player was often deployed in midfield by Arteta last season, the new signing suggests he may not be central to the club's upcoming title defence.

Manchester United are viewing the player as a potential alternative should their pursuit of Lewis Hall fail. However, Arsenal's valuation remains a significant hurdle. Any sale would likely need to surpass the £35 million fee received for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in 2017, which is the club's record sale for an academy product.