Mikel Arteta sends clear message to £60million Chelsea transfer target

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta speaks before tonight’s game against Slavia Prague (Credits: Mike Egerton/Press Association)

Mikel Arteta has assured one of his out of favour stars that he remains a key part of his plans.

The Gunners have made a superb start to their Premier League title defence, winning eight of their nine games so far and put down a significant marker last weekend with first win at Anfield in 14 years.

Arteta’s side have made an equally impressive start to their European campaign and extended their unbeaten run following a 2-2 draw at the home of German champions Bayern Munich a fortnight ago.

Arsenal’s excellence has come at a cost, however, with several high-profile players struggling for significant game time.

Martin Zubimendi represents a prime example with the Spain international, a near ever-present last term, struggling to oust the likes of Declan Rice, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Mikel Merino and summer recruit Bruno Guimaraes.

Indeed, the 27-year-old’s only starts thus far came in the Carabao Cup a competition Arsenal exited last week in shock circumstances at the hands of League Two outfit Fleetwood.

The increased competition for places saw the World Cup winner, who cost Arsenal £60million 18 months ago, linked with a move to Chelsea over the summer.

Xabi Alonso is a huge admirer of his compatriot and with Chelsea still lacking option in central midfield the Blues could make a renewed effort to sign Zubimendi in January.

Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi (Picture: Getty)

Arteta, thought, insists opportunities will be available to the former Real Sociedad star but warned him he must seize those chances as and when they present themselves.

He said: ‘He’s a very important player for us. He’s been a bit unlucky with what happened with the ankle, with the nose afterwards.