Mikel Arteta offers update on Jack Wilshere coming back to Arsenal training

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Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has indicated that conversations are now being held with midfielder Jack Wilshere over a return to Gunners training.

The Gunners chose to add just one midfielder over the summer. Albert Sambi Lokonga came in from Anderlecht, but Granit Xhaka staying meant Edu didn’t look for another.

Yet with Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny set to head off to the Africa Cup of Nations in January, Arsenal could be short in midfield.

That would leave the often-suspended Xhaka, youngster Lokonga and utility man Ainsley Maitland-Niles.

The transfer window is shut so Arsenal can only look at free agents now – such as Wilshere.

Wilshere’s history with Arsenal

Wilshere, 29, was plucked from the Luton Town setup in 2001. Wilshere emerged at Arsenal and looked set for stardom, especially after impressing on loan at Bolton Wanderers.

Fans loved Wilshere’s style of play; technically-gifted but also tenacious.

Wilshere racked up almost 200 appearances for Arsenal, but injuries ravaged him.

Arsenal released Wilshere in the summer of 2018. He went on to join West Ham United and Bournemouth, and now finds himself as a free agent again.

Arteta comments on Wilshere

Arteta told Sky Sports News this afternoon that conversations are now being held with Wilshere.

The Spaniard, who played with Wilshere at Arsenal, is open to letting Wilshere come back and train to keep fit.

That may help Wilshere find a new club down the line, with Arsenal keen to help their former midfielder.

When asked if Wilshere could end up re-signing for Arsenal – just like Sol Campbell did – Arteta played down that prospect.

“We are in conversations with Jack to understand what he needs, what he’s looking for. It’s a person and a player that has a huge admiration around everybody, not just the players or fans, but all staff around here and we are willing to help him as much as we possibly can, he knows that.”

“I wouldn’t take it that far, what I’m saying is that we are in conversation with him to understand what he needs and how can we help him, and that’s it,” he added.