Mikel Arteta speaks on future of Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed his desire to keep Eddie Nketiah at the club beyond the current campaign.

The 22-year-old has less than eight months left on his existing contract, and he could leave on a free transfer next summer.

There are suggestions that the Gunners could cash in on his services in January, but Arteta wants him to stay at the club.

Nketiah was on the scoresheet in the 2-0 Carabao Cup win over Leeds United yesterday, and following the game, Arteta said:

"I have full belief that he is going to be a top, top player and hopefully at Arsenal. I'm happy to have him, he is our player, I regard him really highly and from my side I want him to stay."

Nketiah was widely tipped to join Crystal Palace over the summer, but a deal did not materialise due to his high wage demands.

The Gunners were willing to accept as little as £12m for his services, but may have to lower their price tag further in January.

Several English clubs are likely to make an approach. A few foreign sides could also attempt to negotiate a pre-contract agreement.