Mikel Arteta has nine-word response when asked if Arsenal would sign Raheem Sterling today

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Mikel Arteta has been quizzed about Arsenal’s Transfer Deadline Day activity. 

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta faced the press this afternoon, ahead of Brighton’s visit to the Emirates Stadium for a Premier League clash on Saturday.

The Gunners will be eager to maintain their 100% start to the new season against the Seagulls. However, Brighton have won both of their Premier League games so far too and will provide a stern test. 

However, given today is Transfer Deadline Day, Arteta was inevitably asked about the Gunners’ plans for activity in the market.

Neto will sign for Arsenal from Bournemouth today. The Brazilian goalkeeper will replace Aaron Ramsdale after his switch to Southampton. 

On top of that, Arsenal could swoop for Raheem Sterling. Chelsea have declared the 29-year-old to be surplus to requirements, creating an opportunity for the Gunners to prise him away from Stamford Bridge. 

• READ MORE: Every player linked to and from Arsenal in the summer 2024 transfer window

Mikel Arteta responds to Raheem Sterling question

In his press conference, Arteta was asked if Sterling will be on his way to the Emirates Stadium before the transfer deadline passes at 11pm tonight.

As quoted by Football.London, the Spanish coach batted the query away with a blunt response: “You know that I cannot talk about another player.”

Of course, it stands to reason that Arteta cannot expand upon any negotiations that may be taking place between Arsenal and Chelsea at this time. Both clubs will want their talks to remain private until such a time as a firm agreement is reached.

Will Arsenal sign Raheem Sterling?

Arteta certainly admires Sterling as a player, and knows him well, having worked with him when he was an assistant coach at Manchester City.

It is also a certainty that Chelsea are keen to offload the 82-cap England international.

However, there may be factors that give the Gunners pause for thought before pulling the trigger on a deal.

For a start, Sterling does not fall into the age bracket for players that Arsenal prefer to consider in potential signings. The Gunners have tended to skew towards younger players in this regard. 

On top of that, Sterling’s wages could prove an issue, especially as he may not be a nailed-on starter in North London.

However, Sterling is more likely to join Arsenal than he is Manchester United, having also been linked with a move to Old Trafford, and it is safe to say that the notion of him joining Arteta’s squad ought not be dismissed out of hand.