Report: Mikel Arteta discussing Arsenal clear-out as talks progress

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Mikel Arteta could be on the verge of being handed managerial duties at Arsenal. According to the Independent, talks are now progressing towards an advanced stage. 

The former Gunners midfielder is apparently discussing potential transfers ahead of taking the job prior to the weekend.

One thing that is also likely to take place according to the report is a clear-out.

A lack of effort has been evident at the Emirates Stadium this season. Granit Xhaka and Mesut Ozil are just two players who have been criticised by the club’s long-suffering supporters.

Arteta is keen to address that and he looks likely to be busy during the month of January.

Arsenal haven’t enjoyed a new manager bounce under interim boss Freddie Ljungberg. The Swede has overseen just one win from his five games in charge.

Reviving Arsenal’s fortunes will be a thankless task for Arteta during his first managerial gig. Clearing out some of the deadwood would certainly be an ideal start, however.

It is anticipated that Ljungberg will work alongside Arteta, forming part of his backroom team.

If Arteta does land the Arsenal job he will need to hit the ground running. The Gunners dropped to tenth after Crystal Palace’s draw with Brighton last night.

TBR Verdict – Will any big-name casualties emerge as Arteta prepares to wield the axe?

Given this latest update talk among the Arsenal fanbase will naturally turn towards which players will leave.

It’s fair to say Arteta will have his work cut out. The squad is bloated with big names on high wages and shifting them won’t be easy.

Xhaka and Ozil have both upset fans with emotional signs of petulance at various periods this season and they might be top of the list.

Whichever players Arteta is left with, he needs to instil a winning culture back at the Emirates.

For too long now the Gunners have settled for average and that aspect has to change under the new manager.