Arsenal’s Henrikh Mkhitaryan admits he would like to stay at Roma for ‘another few years’

Loanee believes his future lies away from north London

Arsenal loanee Henrikh Mkhitaryan has admitted that he would like to join Roma permanently this summer and hopes to stay in the Italian capital for “another few years”.

The Armenian, who joined Arsenal in a swap deal with Manchester United in January 2018 that saw Alexis Sanchez head in the other direction, endured an indifferent spell in north London.

However, he has recaptured form with Roma, scoring six goals in 17 appearances so far this season. And, although his loan agreement does not contain a purchase option, the 31-year-old is hopeful an agreement can be struck.

“I don’t know how long I’m going to stay here,” he told Grant Wahl. “I like Rome as a city and AS Roma as a club, I wish I could stay here longer but it’s not up to me.

“I’m doing my best, I’m training, I’m learning Italian to improve so let’s see what’s going to happen next. The club and the philosophy of the manager suits me. I’m very happy to play this type of football because it makes me feel pleasure, it makes me enjoy playing football. It’s the only reason, I guess.

“Of course, I’d like to be at Roma next season and not just next season, for another few years. I still have a contract with Arsenal, it’s not up to me. It’s up to Arsenal and Roma if they agree the terms of the transfer fee.

“My thinking is to play hard, to train hard and to look forward. If I’m not going to stay at Roma and have to go back to Arsenal, I’m not complaining. Football life changes so quick, you have to be ready to play wherever you are. If not in Roma, I’ll go back to Arsenal. If not that, I’ll stay here and play for Roma.”