Mikel Arteta reveals he is 'focused' on Arsenal job amid Barcelona links but has not held talks over new Gunners deal
MIKEL ARTETA insists he is ‘focused’ on Arsenal after sensational reports linking him with Barcelona.
But the Spaniard revealed he is yet to speak with the Gunners about fresh terms at the Emirates.
The LaLiga giants look likely to miss out on silverware this season, which could cost their current manager Ronald Koeman his job.
Major change is about to take place inside the Nou Camp with presidential elections at the end of the week.
Speculation has mounted that frontrunner Joan Laporta has added Arteta to his list of potential new coaches.
However, the Arsenal boss is adamant his head has not been turned as he desperately tries to secure European football even though it was suggested he would be open to joining Barcelona.
He said: “There is always going to be speculation when there are elections in Barcelona. It's a huge team.
“Obviously I was raised there as a player and they're always going to be linked.
“I'm fully focused on the job that I have to do here, and we have a lot to do. I'm really enjoying it.
“I am the manager of Arsenal Football Club, and I'm really enjoying it. I want to do much better than what we've done.”
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When asked whether he had begun talks over extending his deal at the Emirates, he bluntly replied: “No.”
But when pressed, he added: “We're in the middle of the season. We have a lot to play for and at the moment it's not a priority. That's OK.
“I still have a contract here and I am happy here. I don't think that's something urgent.”
The Spaniard took charge in December 2019 and guided the Gunners to FA Cup success last season.
This campaign has been a much tougher challenge, with the club currently tenth and eight points off the top four.
After last week’s comeback against Benfica, the Europa League remains their only realistic chance of glory this term and the best hope of qualifying for the Champions League.
Despite that, Arteta revealed the wheels are already in motion for when the transfer window re-opens in order to elevate the North London side back into a top force.
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