Newest Arsenal star's battle-ready comment explains surprise Mikel Arteta squad decision

Arsenal are set to announce the signing of Matt Turner from New England Revolution in the summer for a fee believed to reach £7.5 million, understands.

Mikel Arteta has been on the lookout for a backup to Aaron Ramsdale ever since the former Sheffield United stopper usurped Bernd Leno as Arsenal’s number one.

Turner took part in MLS media day and was asked about his future move to north London and it became immediately obvious why Arteta, in particular, has taken such a liking towards the current American number one. Discussing his journey up until this point, there is one clear characteristic that stands out, motivation.

"When I first started, it was trying to become a professional soccer player," he said to ESPN. "Most teams said no. I came in and I was a No. 3, I was a two. When I got my first chance with the national team it was only as the number three.

"No one ever really took me seriously, so I'm not going over there just to collect a check and ride off into the sunset. I'm going to push myself and [Ramsdale] and continue to help him get better and help myself get better."

The words of Turner sound brilliantly similar to how Aaron Ramsdale himself spoke regarding joining the Gunners in 2021.

"Competition is key and it’s also a great place to be. Bernd’s done a fantastic job over recent seasons and I’m here to push him all the way and take his shirt," said Ramsdale.

Mikel Arteta is trying to build a squad of players motivated to achieve the absolute maximum from their performances. Players that have decided not to follow his instructions or buy into his rhetoric have been sold, loaned out or are awaiting their incoming departure.

Meanwhile, understands that Leno is expected to leave in the summer, hence the early