AS Roma Director of Football Monchi admits he’s heard about the reports linking him to the new Arsenal Technical Director job, but he’s staying focused on his current club.

On Monday, David Ornstein confirmed that Ramon Rodriguez Verdejo, better known as ‘Monchi’, was on Arsenal’s list of names to become Technical Director at the club. However, the man himself has since played down the rumours.

“I know my name is being associated with Arsenal but I am concentrating on my job with Roma,” Monchi said (via The S*n). “However, it is a pleasure being linked with a club like Arsenal – but it is not the first time that happens.”

The quotes have since been doing the rounds all over the internet, but it’s worth keeping in mind the source. The S*n have a reputation for twisting and exaggerating stories and quotes, and that’s putting it kindly.

Assuming Monchi really did say the above, it suggests a move might be off the table for the time being. The director has a contract in Italy until 2020, so Arsenal could wait it out until then. They’d have to find someone to fill the spot in the meantime.

Unai Emery has already worked with Monchi, during their time with Sevilla.

Monchi’s system in Spain was rather similar to the model Arsenal already try to employ. He helped to develop the club’s youth system, allowing the likes of Sergio Ramos and Jose Antonio Reyes to break through. He also made intelligent signings, like Dani Alves and Ivan Rakitic, before they were fully established players.

If he could repeat the trick with a club the size of Arsenal, it would be great news for the future. We’ll see if the Gunners can convince him to change his mind and come to North London, but for now, it’s not looking likely.