Mikel Arteta has insisted that Arsenal have no interest in signing Manchester City defender John Stones.
With Arteta having worked with the England international during his time at the Etihad Stadium, reports have emerged regarding a potential bid in January.
The speculation coincides with Stones having made just nine starts and two substitute outings for City during the current campaign.
However, despite heaping praise on the player, Arteta has claimed that the Gunners will not be making an approach for his services.
The Spaniard is quoted by the Evening Standard as saying: "No truth at all. John is a player that I really like and we followed him before we signed him when I was at City.
"I worked with him for many years and I know him well, and obviously when I look at centre-backs he has got many attributes that I like from one, but we are not interested in him."
Arteta may still look to bring in a new defender this month due to the long-term injury sustained by Calum Chambers.
Darren Plant
