Arsenal news: Club issue statement denying chief executive Ivan Gazidis is joining AC Milan

Sir Chips Keswick insisted Gazidis was looking forward to working more with Unai Emery

Arsenal have denied chief executive Ivan Gazidis is on the verge of joining AC Milan and remains “fully committed” to the club despite multiple reports suggested he was to become their new executive director.

Italian media suggested Milan, who have new American owners, wanted Gazidis to join them in September as part of their new-look board.

Paul Singer, who runs the hedge fund that has taken control of Milan, is believed to be an Arsenal fan and a close follower of Gazidis’ work, but the Gunners insisted he would not be going anywhere.

In a statement, chairman Sir Chips Keswick said: “We are aware of the speculation surrounding our chief executive Ivan Gazidis. We know he receives many offers from organisations inside and outside the game as he’s a hugely respected figure.

“He has never accepted any of these opportunities and has never spoken about them publicly. He has always been fully committed to taking Arsenal forward and is currently working hard in Singapore with our new head coach Unai Emery as we prepare for the new season.”

The statement comes after Emery said he wanted Gazidis to remain at Arsenal for “many, many years” when asked about his future.

“I speak every day with him,” said Emery. “He has been committed here for many, many years. I think he continues here because it is a big project and his commitment to Arsenal is very strong. We are speaking about every decision for our club.”