Arsenal is expected to announce former player Mikel Arteta on Friday as he Bade Manchester City farewell on Thursday morning.
There has been annoyance at City over Arsenal’s conduct but they will not stop Arteta, 37, succeeding Unai Emery.
A seven-figure compensation payment will be made in order for the move to be completed.
Thursday’s news conference previewing the game against Everton was cancelled.
Interim boss Freddie Ljungberg is expected to take charge of the team for the final time at Goodison Park on Saturday, with Arteta watching from the stands.
The Gunners failed to mention their interest in Arteta despite the two teams meeting at Emirates Stadium on Sunday – a game the champions won 3-0.
Gunners chief executive Vinai Venkatesham was pictured outside the Spaniard’s home several hours later.
[…] million Pound fee can rise to 22 million. Good luck to the new Gooner. He is the second signing for Mikel Arteta after Nuno Tavares and it looks like Ben White is […]
[…] Mikel Arteta said: “Ben was a top target for us and it’s great that we’ve completed his signing. Ben has been educated with two very good clubs, Brighton and Leeds, in recent seasons. He has benefitted well from two very good coaching set-ups and has shown with both Brighton and on loan with Leeds what a strong talent he is. Ben is an intelligent defender who is very comfortable with the ball at his feet and his style fits perfectly with us. And of course, he is still young, so his age and profile fit with what we are building here. We are all looking forward to Ben being central to our future long-term plans.” […]