Mikel Arteta has declared he is "100 per cent" certain that Myles Lewis-Skelly will remain at Arsenal when the summer transfer window closes, dismissing speculation linking the teenage midfielder with moves elsewhere.

Chelsea made an enquiry about Lewis-Skelly earlier this window, and Manchester United have long held an admiration for the youngster, who started Arsenal's UEFA Champions League final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in May. Despite that interest from two of England's biggest clubs, Arteta was unequivocal when pressed at a press conference on Thursday.

"100 per cent," the Arsenal manager replied, when asked whether he was confident Lewis-Skelly would stay.

Academy products hold special value

Arteta went further, explaining the particular importance he attaches to players developed within Arsenal's own system. "The players that have been raised in our academy system and they feel that love and connection with the club, it brings something else," he said. "There is no question about that."

"We need to look after them in a very special way because they bring value that is very difficult to find. That's why, when we can, we have to protect those assets as much as possible, develop them, and make them very important for the club."

Honest conversations for those heading for the exit

The Arsenal boss also addressed the difficult reality of informing players they may need to move on this summer. Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus, and Ethan Nwaneri have each been connected with potential departures.

"It's a really, really tough moment. We need to face that reality," Arteta acknowledged. "But you have to face it with a real honesty and transparency. When you're on the other side, it's exactly what you need."

He stressed that even uncomfortable conversations serve a purpose: "You might not like what you've been told, but if it's truthful, if it's the reality and honest and makes you make better decisions and have more clarity for the next step in your career, you have to do that."

Arteta also emphasised his desire to maintain a large squad heading into the new season, citing lessons learned from injury problems last year: "The deeper squad we have, the better. But the players have to feel valued and feel important."

Guimaraes a doubt for Coventry opener

Ahead of Arsenal's Premier League opener against Coventry on Friday night, Arteta expressed uncertainty over whether summer signing Bruno Guimaraes would be fit to feature. The Brazil midfielder was substituted at half-time during the Community Shield victory over Manchester City and was spotted with an ice pack on his leg afterwards.

"Let's see how it is. It's evolving really well, but let's see for tomorrow," Arteta said.

The manager also highlighted the broader effect new arrivals have on his squad. "That's what new signings bring: new energy. Something to prove in front of them as well. Competition. When you talk about players, the same with Christos Tzolis or Illan Meslier since day one, it lifts the level," he added.