Arteta speaks out on exits amid Tierney, Pepe and Matt Turner reports

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has addressed the speculation surrounding possible player exits in the final month of the summer transfer window.
Arteta confirmed that the club is currently working on a few things and will have to make some decisions regarding player departures. However, he also expressed his satisfaction with the current squad.

Arteta stated as per Football.London, “Well we’re in the process. We’re working on a few things. We have to make a few decisions. We’re very happy with the squad we have that’s for sure.”

This statement from Arteta suggests that while Arsenal may be considering potential exits, they are content with their current roster and are not actively seeking major changes. It indicates that any departures would likely be carefully considered and only occur if they benefit the team overall.

Throughout this summer transfer window, Arsenal has already made significant moves in terms of player acquisitions. The Gunners secured the services of 24-year-old attacking midfielder Kai Havertz from Chelsea for a reported fee of £65 million. Additionally, they signed 22-year-old defender Jurrien Timber from Ajax in a deal worth €40 million plus €5 million in add-ons.

ST ALBANS, ENGLAND – JULY 15: Arsenal unveil new signing Declan Rice at London Colney on July 15, 2023 in St Albans, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

One of Arsenal’s most notable signings this window was 24-year-old midfielder Declan Rice from West Ham United for an astonishing £105 million fee. This transfer set a new record for the highest amount paid between two British clubs.

Despite these impressive signings, there have been rumors surrounding potential exits from Arsenal as well. Players such as Kieran Tierney, Nicolas Pepe, and Matt Turner have all been linked with possible moves away from the Emirates Stadium.

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 26: Kieran Tierney of Arsenal runs with the ball during the Pre-Season Friendly match between Arsenal and FC Barcelona at SoFi Stadium on July 26, 2023 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

However, Arteta’s comments suggest that these rumors may not hold much weight or significance at this time. It appears that Arsenal is focused on building upon their current squad rather than making wholesale changes.

As the summer transfer window draws to a close, it remains to be seen whether Arsenal will indeed part ways with any of their players. The club’s fans will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on developments, eager to see how Arteta and his team shape the squad for the upcoming season.

In the meantime, Arsenal supporters can take solace in the fact that their manager is content with the current squad. Arteta’s confidence in his players should provide reassurance that any potential exits will be carefully considered and only made if they benefit the team’s overall objectives.