Arsenal news LIVE updates: Follow below for all the latest from the Emirates
Thursday December 14
Man Utd lead Barca in chase for Ozil
05.30: Mesut Ozil would prefer a move to Manchester United over Barcelona, if Arsenal cannot meet his extortionate contract demands, according to reports.
It is said the Gunners have offered Ozil an improved deal of £235,000 a week to stick around in north London.
But the 29-year-old is holding out for a contract in the region of £300,000 a week.
And according to the Daily Mail, the German would favour a move to Old Trafford over the Nou Campif he was to leave the Emirates Stadium.
Wenger takes pop at Chelsea after West Ham draw
05.00: Arsene Wenger has taken a parting shot at Chelsea after his side were held to a goalless draw at West Ham tonight.
Despite not picking up a much-needed win, Wenger was still slightly pleased that he bettered Chelsea’s result at the weekend.
West Ham emerged 1-0 winners thanks to Marko Arnautovic’s goal – and Wenger could not help rubbing it Antonio Conte’s face.
“Chelsea came here and lost and we had one day less to prepare,” Wenger told Match of the Day.
“I can’t fault the effort of the team but West Ham were very good in defence tonight.”
Ainsley Maitland-Niles praised by Danny Murphy
04.30: Match of the Day pundit Danny Murphy has hailed Arsenal defender Ainsley Maitland-Niles.
The 20-year-old made his first Premier League start at left-back against West Ham last night.
And he thoroughly impressed as he helped the Gunners keep a clean sheet as they drew 0-0 at the London Stadium.
“He impressed me massively,” Murphy said.
“He played left-back in a four, Arsenal changed it, and I still don’t know if he’s left-footed or right-footed.
“He was so comfortable on both. He was calm.
“Every time he got into attacking areas he didn’t panic and he always picked out a decent ball.”