Rio Ferdinand has revealed that he heard rumblings of a major story that could pose major questions for Mikel Arteta's future at Arsenal. The Spaniard is currently loving life in London and sits top of the Premier League but could be angling for a move elsewhere come the summer.
With the potential for a series of high-profile managerial changes at the end of the season, Arteta could be dragged into the mix if Real Madrid were to move on from Carlo Ancelotti. The Italian has been linked with taking over as Brazil's national team boss but set the record straight ahead of Los Blancos' Champions League win against Chelsea.
"You want me to clear up my situation?," he said. "My situation, I have already said it, I don't like to speak about this but I said this in Spain and I repeat here. I have a contract here until 2024 and so I would like to stay in Real Madrid."
READ MORE: Martin Odegaard video proves criticism of Arsenal players' treatment of mascot is misplaced
If that is to be that then Arsenal fans have nothing to worry about but Ferdinand, speaking on his Rio Ferdinand Presents FIVE Youtube channel, explained that noises he had heard suggested things could yet change. “You’ve got to keep Arteta, first and foremost,” he started.
“I heard something. I heard that Real Madrid and when they come knocking your players will be coachless. I heard Ancelotti, Don Carlo, the eyebrow, he might be getting off, and that Arteta is looking to go to Real Madrid.
“That’s the rumour on the streets. The streets are talking. I hope he stays.”
With Chelsea also among those that are looking for a new manager it could all be centred around what Madrid choose to do with Ancelotti. His side are in yet another European semi-final but have fallen way off the pace in La Liga, something that could cost him.
As one of the most highly sought of managers in the world his attraction to Madrid is clear. It has been reported that they had already sounded him out as a future head coach with young, tactically adept and successful characters on their list.
For now Arteta appears to be just at the start of a very special road at the Emirates Stadium but when Real Madrid come calling it is a hard one to turn down.
READ NEXT:
Arsenal given William Saliba injury blow with defender unlikely to make Southampton
Arsenal learn William Saliba injury update ahead of Southampton Premier League clash
Arsenal urged to complete Sadio Mane transfer after touching Bukayo Saka moment
Oleksandr Zinchenko and Arsenal stars can return vs Southampton as William Saliba hope remains
Arsenal handed Premier League title boost vs Man City just when Mikel Arteta needs it most
