Arsenal hope to appoint Mikel Arteta as their new head coach in time for the trip to Everton this Saturday, according to reports.

SWANSEA, WALES - SEPTEMBER 24: Mikel Arteta, Assistant coach of Manchester City looks on during the Premier League match between Swansea City and Manchester City at Liberty Stadium on September 24, 2016 in Swansea, Wales. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
(Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Sky Sports News report Arsenal are hopeful they can appoint Arteta before the weekend fixture against Everton. They add that the Spaniard is yet to tell Manchester City his final decision on the job, but he’ll make up his mind after their game on Wednesday.

City and Pep Guardiola want Arteta to stay, but accept that the chance to manage Arsenal may prove too enticing.

James Benge of Football.London corroborates the claims that Arsenal are hoping to have Arteta in charge this weekend, saying it’s ‘near to a done deal’.

For the time being, Freddie Ljungberg is still leading the way in terms of preparation for Arsenal’s weekend game. For free bets and betting offers ahead of the Everton fixture, follow the link.

Reports on Tuesday suggested Manchester City’s compensation is one of the final stumbling blocks before Arteta can take over.

Obviously, City aren’t in any rush to let their assistant manager go. If they can disadvantage Arsenal whilst keeping Arteta around for a bit longer, there’s no real downside. As a result, Ljungberg and the squad would be safer assuming he’ll stay in charge for now.