Mikel Arteta says Arsenal are being prepared if the right opportunity arises before the transfer deadline on 5 October.
Ahead of two games against Liverpool next week, the Gunners are linked with the likes of Atletico Madrid’s Thomas Partey, Chelsea midfielder Jorginho and rising Lyon star Houssem Aouar.
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Lucas Torreira has been linked with Atletico in a switch that could increase Arsenal’s chances of landing Partey.
While Arteta had no immediate updates as he faced reporters ahead of the first Liverpool game in the Premier League on Monday, he suggested there was a chance for activity.
“We are still open to improving our team,” he said ahead of his side’s trip to Anfield.
“We’re looking at different options, depending on what happens to some of our players here. We’re being prepared just in case we need to do something.
“We do not have any updates on Lucas or any other player at the moment and sorry, but I can not talk about players playing for another team.
“[Discussing] their qualities are not appropriate on my part. “
Arsenal boss Arteta praised Nicolas Pepe, who impressed in Wednesday’s 2-0 away away win over Leicester City.
The 25-year-old is under pressure to produce in his second season after scoring just five Premier League goals in his debut campaign after joining Lille for £ 72 million.
“I think he has come a long way,” said Arteta, whose side has won three from three across all competitions in 2020-21.
“We know what the club paid for him when he came on and it was clearly an extra pressure, but he is a player who has had to adapt, it is a different style.” He has a really good attitude. We can see development in many phases of his game. He is very resident here, he likes the boys, he is a really good character to have around.
“I’m really positive that we’ll get him for many years and that he can consistently perform at a really high level.”
