Manchester City are angry that Arsenal have approached Mikel Arteta without permission, even if they would be open to letting him leave for the Gunners.
The PA news agency understands the Premier League champions are not impressed with the conduct of Arsenal and will demand a seven-figure sum in compensation should the Spaniard leave.
Speculation linking the City assistant coach with the vacancy at the Emirates Stadium has intensified after pictures emerged of Arsenal managing director Vinai Venkatesham outside Arteta’s house in the early hours of Monday morning.
It is understood two meetings have now taken place and City are unhappy that the London club did not ask for permission to speak to Arteta.
They are especially annoyed because City played at Arsenal on Sunday and no approach was made when club officials met.
City, however, do not have an issue with 37-year-old Arteta, and will allow him to make his own decision.
Arteta spent five years as a player at Arsenal, including a spell as captain, and now looks set to return to the capital for his first managerial role.
Sunday’s 3-0 defeat to City increased the need for the Gunners to end the uncertainty over the position, leaving the club as close to the relegation zone as they are to the top four.
Kevin De Bruyne’s first-half masterclass tore them to shreds as he scored twice either side of teeing up Raheem Sterling for the second.
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