London, Aug 22 (AP) Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta remained cautious on Friday regarding the potential acquisition of Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace, while confirming that Kai Havertz has suffered a knee injury.
“I can never talk about any player that is not part of our group or club yet,” Arteta stated during a news conference when queried about Eze, who is reportedly undergoing a medical at Arsenal with a transfer fee of 60 million pounds ($80 million) being discussed.
Eze, an England international and former Arsenal youth team member, initially left the club at 13. Now, he might be making a return, as Crystal Palace announced on Thursday that Eze is departing the club.
When asked about the significance of a new signing's desire to play for Arsenal, Arteta remarked, “That's No. 1 — that they want to be with us, they feel something special to come to us.” He further added, “The stronger the feeling, the better. It brings a different edge, emotion, and will to what we do.”
If Eze indeed joins, it will increase competition in a forward line potentially missing Havertz for an extended period.
The German forward is dealing with a knee injury, and Arteta noted that more tests are required to determine its severity.
“After that, we will have more clarity about the next steps,” Arteta concluded.
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