Player Mikel Arteta really wants to sign now sends message to Arsenal new boy

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A player Mikel Arteta is said to be extremely keen to sign for Arsenal has now reacted to an announcement from the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners are close to signing Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna – but in the meantime, a separate deal has been completed, which drew interest from another Arsenal target.

So, what is the latest at Arsenal? Let’s take a look…

Chris Rigg reacts as Arsenal sign Tommy Setford

Arsenal have now announced the arrival of Tommy Setford from Ajax.

The 18-year-old goalkeeping sensation will go straight into the Arsenal Academy at Hale End, where he will look to hone his skills and eventually push David Raya for the No.1 shirt.

After Setford’s move was confirmed, Sunderland wonderkid Chris Rigg could be seen in the comments section, where he wrote “nice bro” in response to his friend’s transfer to the Emirates Stadium.

Interestingly, it comes after the Northern Echo claimed that Arsenal are extremely interested in signing Rigg – with Manchester United and Newcastle also keen.

Clearly, Setford would have a friend at Arsenal if the Gunners managed to sign the 17-year-old Sunderland prodigy, who remains the Championship outfit’s youngest debutant after he appeared in an FA Cup match aged 15.

18-year-old already knows two players at the Emirates Stadium

Even if Edu fails to bring Rigg to north London along with Setford, the teenage goalkeeper already has two pals at Arsenal.

In his first interview with the Gunners, Setford said: “I already know Ethan (Nwaneri) and Myles (Lewis-Skelly). They’re great guys and I can have a good laugh with them. I spent a few camps with them, so I know them well. I just saw them for a quick meet and greet.”

That should ensure the teenager has no problems settling in at Arsenal, where he may initially struggle despite his status as an Englishman, having been born and raised in Haarlem.

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Hopefully, Arsenal can also sign the precociously talented Rigg to help Setford settle even better in north London, and also to ensure Arteta gets his hands on one of England’s greatest prospects.