Mikel Arteta has spoken positively about Takehiro Tomiyasu and Jorginho, emphasising their importance to Arsenal amid transfer rumours and contract talks.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND: Jorginho of Arsenal applauds the fans following the team's defeat during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Arsenal FC at St. James Park on November 04, 2023. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND: Jorginho of Arsenal applauds the fans following the team’s defeat during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Arsenal FC at St. James Park on November 04, 2023. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Mikel Arteta has affirmed his happiness with Takehiro Tomiyasu and Jorginho, dismissing speculation about their potential exits from Arsenal.

Amid rumours, particularly from Germany, suggesting Bayern Munich‘s interest in Tomiyasu and stalled contract talks for Jorginho, Arteta remains clear in his stance.

On Tomiyasu, Arteta said, “I really want him to stay. I value the player a lot. I really like him. I think he’s loved and respected by everybody at the club. He’s getting a lot of minutes now. He’s getting his availability to the level that we need for him to make an impact in the team and he will continue to be with us.”

LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 28: Takehiro Tomiyasu of Arsenal celebrates after scoring the team's fifth goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Sheffield United at Emirates Stadium on October 28, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 28: Takehiro Tomiyasu of Arsenal celebrates after scoring the team’s fifth goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Sheffield United at Emirates Stadium on October 28, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Tomiyasu, whose contract with Arsenal runs until 2025 with an option for an additional year, has been a subject of interest from Bayern Munich, especially under Thomas Tuchel‘s management.

Despite this, Arsenal’s position remains firm on keeping him.

Regarding Jorginho, whose contract is more imminent as it ends next summer, Arteta commented, “I’m really happy with Jorgi… I think he contributes to make the team better and let’s see.”

However, Arteta clarified any decision on Jorginho’s contract extension is deferred to Edu or the board.

Bayern’s pursuit of Tomiyasu has been consistent, with reports from Sky Deutschland highlighting their interest in his defensive versatility.

While Tomiyasu’s game time at Arsenal has been limited, often appearing as a substitute, Bayern remain hopeful and may revisit their interest in the next summer transfer window.