Myles Lewis-Skelly has been linked with a move away from Arsenal this summer, with Chelsea and Manchester United reportedly interested in signing the defender.
However, the Gunners want to keep him, and after his impressive pre-season and fine performance in the Community Shield, they believe he is going to be an important player for the team.
Lewis-Skelly now plays in his preferred role in Arsenal’s midfield, and the youngster has performed well since that change was made in the final weeks of last season. His progress has given the club further reason to keep him.
Arsenal have signed Bruno Guimaraes, but that does not mean the Gunners are prepared to let Lewis-Skelly leave. Mikel Arteta has confirmed via the Daily Mail that the Englishman will not leave before the close of this transfer window.
Lewis-Skelly faces a big season and will be keen to earn more playing time despite the increased competition in Arsenal’s midfield this summer. His performances during pre-season have strengthened his case for a bigger role.
The youngster has already shown that he can contribute effectively from midfield, and Arsenal appear convinced that he can continue developing in that position. Keeping him at the club would also allow Arteta to maintain another important option within his squad.
The interest from Chelsea and Manchester United could make his situation worth monitoring, but Arsenal have no intention of allowing him to leave at this stage. The club believe his development is progressing well and that he can play an important role in their plans.
In the coming weeks, Lewis-Skelly will discover whether staying at the club was the right decision for his career, but the Gunners clearly want him to remain. They do not believe this is the right moment for him to leave.
Arsenal already have a plan to strengthen their squad, and the Englishman is certainly one of the players who can help make that happen. His versatility and development give Arteta another option as the team prepares for the challenges ahead.
With the transfer window approaching its conclusion, Arsenal are expected to keep Lewis-Skelly and continue supporting his development. The midfielder now has the opportunity to establish himself further and compete for a more significant role in the squad.
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