If Mikel Arteta is about to become the next Arsenal manager, then we have some idea of what he’s asking for based on reports from last summer.

Back then, Arsenal were said to be very close to hiring Mikel Arteta before balking at the last minute and hiring the mid-table maestro.

Now, after Arsenal execs were seen slinking from Arteta’s home in the middle of the night following the Gunners’ latest defeat – at his hands, no less – it looks like we could be about to see Freddie replaced by another former Gunner.

Before the Unai Emery announcement came out of nowhere, the Times were reporting that Arteta had a number of ‘requests as he closed in on the job.

He wanted to bring in three members of staff, much more reasonable than the nine Max Allegri is said to want.

Arteta is also said to want ‘a strong voice’ in the transfer process as well as the power to veto any moves for particular players.

Had he a weak hand back in 2018, Arteta will surely get all he asks for now and probably a bit more.

Beyond that, he seems happy to come in to actually coach the team.

Imagine that, actual coaching.

Last summer, it was also reported that the club wanted to ensure Arteta had someone more experienced alongside him while The Independent claimed Arteta wanted to bring in Santi Cazorla and Thierry Henry.

The latter has not long signed for Montreal Impact but the former could be considering his next move and has already said he’d love to return after his playing days are over.

Pep Guardiola, forhis part, has already backed Arteta to be a success and said he won’t stand in his way if he wants to leave City.