Arteta could be unveiled as Arsenal manager in time for Everton game

Mikel Arteta could be appointed Arsenal head coach before the weekend after he holds a final round of talks with club director Josh Kroenke.

It was revealed on Monday that Arteta met Arsenal managing director Vinai Venkatesham and director of football operations Huss Fahmy on Sunday night, but his appointment as the ­Gunners' new boss needs the seal of approval from Kroenke, the vice chairman of the club's owners, Kroenke Sports & Entertainment (KSE).

Following Unai Emery's sacking last month, KSE tasked Fahmy, Venkatesham, technical director Edu and head of football Raul Sanllehi to recruit a new head coach.

A number of candidates have since been considered for the job, including Carlo Ancelotti, Massimiliano Allegri and Patrick Vieira, but Manchester City assistant and former Arsenal captain Arteta has emerged as the frontrunner and could be appointed in time for ­Saturday's trip to Everton, who themselves are close to hiring Ancelotti.

Arteta's meeting with Venkatesham and Fahmy is a strong indication of how fast the situation is accelerating.