Will Mikel Arteta bring Raheem Sterling to Arsenal?

Although Mikel Arteta has acknowledged his "strong relationship" with Raheem Sterling, he has made it clear that he would not attempt to sign the winger to Arsenal. On the evening before the new Premier League season began, the 29-year-old was not notified by Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca that he was not part of the Italian's plans. 

Furthermore, Sterling is anticipated to make a move prior to next week's transfer deadline, as Maresca disclosed in an intense news conference on Wednesday that the former Manchester City player was no longer working with the first team squad.

Since they played together at The Etihad, Arteta is well acquainted with Sterling, and Arsenal is rumored to be looking for offensive reinforcements. Although the Spaniard dismissed the idea of trying to recruit Sterling, he did strengthen their relationship. Since Maresca revealed that Sterling was expected to depart before Friday's transfer deadline, a number of claims have surfaced, with the player reportedly preferring to remain in the Premier League.

Mikel Arteta spoke about the press conference. “My time with Raheem was exceptional. We built a really strong relationship together. He was unbelievable at the time we were together.  He taught me a lot as well, about individuals, how they, players think, how we support them. He is someone I have really strong feelings abo.”

“He still needs to improve his final ball” : Emmanuel Petit

Aston Villa has already received an offer from Chelsea to recruit the 82-cap England player, and Crystal Palace and other elite teams have also been loosely connected. Arsenal is not one of those teams, but when Arteta was asked if he believed that there might be any chance Sterling will transfer from Stamford Bridge to The Emirates in the days to come, former Gunners great Emmanuel Petit cautioned him against making a move for the player.

The former Arsenal pehen said, “Nope, Arsenal won't sign Raheem Sterling. Since Sterling left Liverpool, he hasn't improved a whole lot at Manchester City and Chelsea. Sterling can have big moments but there is no consistency in his performances. He still needs to improve his final ball and needs to score more, this is the main problem.”