The Spanish coach's current deal expires at the end of this season but an extension is expected to be a formality as he enjoys a strong relationship with Gunners chiefs.

Arteta said: "The focus has been on the transfer window.

"We had quite a lot of things to do and discuss. We are on it and we will take care of that in the right moment."

Arteta has been in charge of Arsenal since 2019 - leading the team to runners-up finishes in the Premier League in the past two campaigns - and is "grateful" that the club's hierarchy have placed their faith in him.

He said: "I am very grateful first of all for where I'm sitting and the people I work with every single day because it's really difficult to find that harmony, trust, belief and alignment in the vision.

"It's something I always mention because I believe we still have an unbelievable time ahead of us. It's very exciting and I am very excited about it."

Arsenal are thought to be closing in on a deal to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino and Arteta spoke of the club's need to be prepared for the final week of the transfer window.

He said: "We have to because anything can happen both ways.

"You have to be ready and especially in the last week [of the transfer window]. You have to be alert and prepared because a lot of surprises can come, for many different reasons and we are prepared."