Barcelona presidential candidate Joan Laporta has refused to deny interest in Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.

Arteta has been mentioned as a potential replacement for Barca coach Ronald Koeman should Laporta win this week's election.

Asked about the former La Masia prospect, Laporta replied: "Mikel Arteta to replace Ronald Koeman next season? I will not give names this season. Our coach to the finish is Koeman. He is a Barça great who has the results and the game as a margin.

"With my experience as president, I do not want to give names because I will destabilise Koeman. Koeman stood up and was impeccable. He is understanding. With him, we can talk (...) The contract is in force. I hope he will do well."