ARSENAL’S talks with Mikel Arteta to become their new manager have reached a “sensitive stage”, according to reports.
The Gunners have been working hard to convince the Spaniard to quit his assistant role at Man City to become their new gaffer.
According to Sky Sports, Arteta has yet to decide whether to take the job because of his close relationship with Pep Guardiola.
The prospect of managing at the Etihad in the future is also playing a part in his final decision.
Arsenal’s managing director Vinai Venkatesham and chief negotiator Huss Fahmy were spotted leaving Arteta’s house at 1am just hours after Man City’s 3-0 win over the Gunners.
Man City are thought to be fuming at Arsenal’s approach for Arteta but will not stand in his way if he does want to leave.
Guardiola said: “We were so smart to pick him up and now the others want him.
“Hes an incredible person, a good manager, thats why hes done well with us.
“Hes talking with Arsenal so I dont know whats going to happen.”
It is claimed that members of the Arsenal hierarchy are at loggerheads as to who should be appointed.
Managing director Edu is leaning towards former midfielder and Nice boss Patrick Vieira.
Any decision will not be made within the next couple of days with Guardiola confirming Arteta will be travelling for their Carabao Cup quarter-final with Oxford tomorrow.
The latest interview came on Monday nightas non-executive director Josh Kroenke held talks with the prospective boss.
Artetahas been at the Etihad since his playing retirement in 2016 and was even considered for the Arsenal job when Arsene Wenger left 18 months ago.
City would demand a five-figure compensation fee while also preparing to offer Arteta a 5million-a-year deal.
