Arsenal ‘make decision’ over midfielder as Mikel Arteta’s transfer ‘priority’ emerges

Arsenal return to action on Saturday when they take on London rivals Fulham.

The Gunners won their first two outings of the season, seeing off Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace, and they are now hoping to make it three from three. Mikel Arteta’s men have title ambitions this season, but they are going to have to be ultra-consistent to keep Manchester City from continuing their dominance at the top.

In the meantime, there is still transfer business to take care of, and with that in mind, we have rounded up all the latest news and rumours surrounding the Emirates Stadium.

Defender search

Arsenal are said to be still looking for another signing ahead of next week’s deadline.

According to Miguel Delaney of The Independent, the Gunners are eyeing a move for a versatile right-back after losing new signing Jurrien Timber to a long-term injury. Delaney wrote: “Arsenal are looking for a defender, preferably a right-back who can play across,”

Youngster Ivan Fresneda has been linked, but Arsenal don’t seem to be on the brink of striking a deal with the deadline closing in. Their options may well remain open at this point.

Partey decision

Arsenal have made a firm decision over the future of Thomas Partey, according to reports in Turkey.

According to Fanatik, Galatasaray made an offer to sign Partey on a loan deal with an option to buy, but Arsenal have now told them they do not intend to sell Partey. Partey looked as though he could leave north London in the summer, but Arteta still sees him as an important part of his squad, with the Ghanaian having filled in at full-back over recent outings.

Partey is under contract at Arsenal until 2025, and it looks as though he will remain in place until at least next summer.