Mikel Arteta has revealed his admiration for Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara, but refused to confirm whether or not Arsenal tried to sign him this summer.
Liverpool recently signed Thiago from Bayern Munich in a deal worth up to £25m, and it was later rumoured that Arsenal - along with Manchester United and Chelsea - wanted to bring in the Spain international before the deal was done.
The Gunners defeated Jurgen Klopp's side on penalties to lift the Community Shield at the start of the season, and now face them twice in quick succession as they lock horns in both the Premier League and Carabao Cup fourth round following Wednesday's win over Leicester.
Asked if Arsenal tried to sign Thiago, Arteta said: "We don't discuss the things we try and do in the market, but I like him from my time in Barcelona.
"Incredible personality, great talent, very special, great qualities to play in midfield and yes, I think he is a great signing for Liverpool."
Arsenal have been in fine form since the end of June, winning the 2019/20 FA Cup and finding themselves unbeaten in their last eight matches in all competitions - winning seven - ahead of another huge test against the Premier League champions, who have won their opening two matches.
"The games we played at the Emirates [which Arsenal won 2-1] and the Shield were very different," Arteta added. "I think it will be different again. We know the standards they have set in this league and how consistent they have been.
"They dominate almost every aspect of the game. We need to be at our best, we need to compete really well and hopefully the boys are ready to do that on Monday."
More to follow...
espasito
164
he is a very gifted midfielder and am sure he will be a big impact at anfield