Chuba Akpom has opened up on Alexis Sanchez's failed move to Manchester City on transfer deadline day this summer, stating that the players and fans are delighted that the Chile international is still a Gunner.

Sanchez's proposed switch to the Citizens fell through because Arsenal were unable to sign a replacement at short notice, having failed to strike terms with Monaco for long-term target Thomas Lemar.

''We do banter about it to be fair," said Akpom to Daily Star.

''But at the end of the day, he’s still at Arsenal. Everyone is happy, the fans are happy and he’s happy.

''I think with a player like Sanchez he just blocks it out because all he wants to do is play football.

''He’s so focused on football, he blocks out a lot of negativity and transfer rumours.''

Chuba Akpom has yet to make a single appearance for Arsenal's first team in the current campaign, but was included in the match day squads for the Europa League game against Cologne and the League Cup clash against Doncaster Rovers.

The Hale End Academy product participated in Arsenal's final training session before tonight's Premier League match against West Brom at the Emirates.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel