Mikel Arteta handed Matteo Guendouzi transfer boost in Arsenal's quest for funds

Hertha Berlin chief Arne Friedrich has talked up Arsenal loanee Matteo Guendouzi amid rumours of a permanent deal.

The midfielder headed to Germany on loan in October having fallen out of favour with Mikel Arteta.

His conduct was called into question following Arsenal's defeat at Brighton last season, but the Bundesliga club have encountered no such problems.

Hertha are well backed financially so could well stump up whatever cash the Gunners are seeking for the Frenchman.

Friedrich has hailed Guendouzi's talent and believes he is a "great player".

"When you talk about Guendouzi and see his skills, you realise that he is a great player," he told  The Guardian .

"I’ve also read that he had problems at Arsenal but here he behaves very well. He puts all of himself on the field. He is a great professional.

"Guendouzi’s situation confirms that we must always understand how to help the players, with a talent like him it is worth it."

The Frenchman joined Arsenal in 2018 having moved from Lorient when Unai Emery was in charge.

Arteta's desire to overhaul his Arsenal squad and take the club in a new direction has led to suggestions that Guendouzi's time is up.

The 21-year-old has dismissed that notion however and believes there could be a way back for him at the Emirates.

“No, not at all. Now, I am focused on my season with Hertha Berlin," he told France Football when asked whether his Arsenal career was over.

“Next, we will have a sit down with my entourage and people at the club to think and discuss the future. I am still an Arsenal player. This summer will be a decisive moment.”

He went on to say: “Yes, of course." when asked if he could again play under Arteta.