Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has dismissed transfer rumors involving Myles Lewis-Skelly, expressing that he appreciates the interest in his players being linked to other clubs.
Recently, Lewis-Skelly has been the subject of transfer talks concerning potential moves to Chelsea and Manchester United following Arsenal’s acquisition of midfielder Bruno Guimarães from Newcastle.
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The 19-year-old started in Arsenal’s midfield during a preseason match against Italian club Como at the Emirates Stadium. He scored the only goal for Arsenal, celebrating with a heart gesture towards the crowd and tapping the club badge on his shirt as he returned to the center circle.
“It’s great to see such emotion after scoring. You should feel that way when you score a goal,” Arteta remarked regarding Lewis-Skelly’s celebration.
“He’s an emotional player, evident through his expressions on the field. I won’t comment on the speculation—if there is any, it’s a positive sign; it means our players are drawing interest and performing well.”
The England international secured a five-year deal with Arsenal last summer, but his long-term prospects have come into question after he fell to third choice left-back behind Riccardo Calafiori and Piero Hincapié last season.
While he started just five Premier League matches last campaign, Lewis-Skelly enjoyed a revival towards the season’s conclusion in his preferred position as a central midfielder.
Arsenal, however, is well-equipped in the midfield area after bringing in Guimarães, alongside Declan Rice, captain Martin Ødegaard, as well as World Cup winners Martín Zubimendi and Mikel Merino.
“Lewis-Skelly has performed admirably this preseason,” Arteta mentioned. “We had him play in a different role as we were short on midfielders due to international commitments, and he has consistently impressed throughout the preseason.”
Guimarães, who transferred for £75 million from Newcastle, made his debut for Arsenal at halftime against Como, replacing Lewis-Skelly in the 62nd minute.
Guimarães contributed to the victory by scoring in the penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw at the end of regular time.
“Although he’s only had three training sessions, he performed well,” Arteta noted. “He was eager to get on the field for his debut and engage with our fans straight away. He is certainly a player that will enhance our team.”
Following Arsenal’s first Premier League title in 22 years last season, Arteta is keen to continue bolstering the squad before the closing of the summer transfer window.
“We aim to make further improvements to the squad to add more quality and depth whenever possible,” he stated. “We are actively pursuing this, but it’s essential to recognize that the market operates beyond our control. The club’s desire and intent are clear, but we cannot guarantee outcomes since it doesn’t solely depend on us.”
In the meantime, Arsenal is gearing up for Sunday’s Community Shield match against Manchester City at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium.
“We’ve been able to address several priorities during preseason, considering the World Cup and the number of players on international duty,” Arteta reflected. “We’ve gathered positive strengths, but there are many lessons to learn, and we will be ready for Sunday.”
PA contributed to this report.