Joe Willock took part in Arsenal's pre-season media duties at London Colney on Friday afternoon but his future at the club remains uncertain, football.london understands.
Willock’s future is up in the air following an impressive loan spell with Newcastle United last season, with Steve Bruce keen on bringing the midfielder to Tyneside for another season.
The 21-year-old, who progressed through the Gunners academy, joined the Magpies on loan and was in stunning form, netting eight goals in just 14 games from the centre of the park.
Both a loan deal and permanent transfer have been discussed, but Arsenal are have yet to respond with a concrete answer - with Willock also proposed as a makeweight in a potential deal for Leicester midfielder. James Maddison.
Arteta confirmed at the start of Arsenal's pre-season that Willock will remain a Gunners player "in the time that he's here".
"He wasn't involved today because he had a little groin issue," said Arteta.
"He trained yesterday really well but we didn't want to risk him. Joe is part of our plans, he's our player and in the time that he is here we will try to make the most out of him.
"He had a great experience on loan. He was I think he was one of the most important players for their survival."
