However, the imminent start of the Africa Cup of Nations means it could be the middle of February before the 27-year-old joins the title race.
Generally, though, Arteta is likely to rely on loan signings this window, if at all, with the defence a priority following injuries to Jurrien Timber and Takehiro Tomaysu.
“We have managed three and a half months with some big injuries as well and that’s credit to the boys, so I’m really happy with what they’re doing. We can improve, yes, we want to evolve, yes, and that will be the target for the next coming games.”
