Mikel Arteta says the world’s best players still want to sign for Arsenal, regardless of whether they are in Europe.
Arsenal, who have not qualified for the Champions League since 2016, are yet to sign anyone this month, but are interested in a deal to bring Fiorentina striker Dusan Vlahovic to the Premier League.
The striker, who in 2021 equalled Cristiano Ronaldo’s record for Serie A goals scored in a calendar year, is understood to prefer a move to a Champions League side.
But Arteta insists the north London club, who are currently fourth in the Premier League, still have big pulling power among world-class talent.
“Historically, this club has been targeting the best players in the world and the best players in the world were always interested to come here,” said Arteta, ahead of Thursday’s Carabao Cup semi-final first leg at Liverpool.
“I consider that situation hasn’t changed. That is one of our biggest powers.
“Every time I have spoken to any player they were so willing to come, I have not faced any other situation.
“Our capacity to get the attention of people to come to our club, is something that is a big advantage for us.”
