Sawt Falasteen - Arteta coy over Lewis-Skelly's Arsenal future after 'emotional' celebration

Lewis-Skelly has been linked with a move to Manchester United and Chelsea after starting just five times in the Premier League last season.

The 19-year-old signed a long-term contract at the Emirates Stadium last year, but his struggle to hold down a regular place in Arteta's side has sparked speculation over his future.

When Lewis-Skelly scored in the 1-1 draw with Como at Emirates Stadium on Wednesday, the England international made a heart gesture towards Arsenal's fans in a move that was interpreted as a potential farewell.

Gunners boss Arteta did not see it that way however.

"It is good to score a goal, you should be emotional," he said.

"I don't want to talk about any speculation. If there is speculation about any of our players it is a good sign. It means what we are attracting interest and we are doing a good job."

Referencing Lewis-Skelly's extravagant goal celebration against Manchester City -- when he mocked Erling Haaland -- in the 2024-25 season, Arteta said the youngster's latest show of emotion was in keeping with his personality.

"He is a very emotional player, remember when he did the hand gestures (against City)," he said.

- 'Really consistent' -

While Lewis-Skelly found it difficult to earn playing time in Arsenal's march to their first Premier League title since 2004, he did start their Champions League final defeat against Paris Saint-Germain.

Lewis-Skelly broke into the Arsenal team as a left-back but during last season's run-in he was used in central midfield.

He impressed in crucial league wins over Fulham and West Ham, as well as in the Champions League semi-final second-leg against Atletico Madrid.

With Lewis-Skelly's future at the Emirates Stadium in doubt, Arteta acknowledged the importance of the teenager's versatility.

"He's had a really good pre-season. We asked him to play in a different position because he played more as a No.6," he said.

"We obviously lacked midfielders from international duty. I think he had a really consistent pre-season."

F.Qawasmeh--SF-PST