Arteta is also sweating on the fitness of Brazil striker Gabriel Jesus, who has missed the last two Premier League matches with a groin injury.

And the Spaniard will be desperate to come up with the perfect solution after guiding his side to two wins and a draw in their opening three matches.

Arteta could turn to Sterling for the short trip to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with his side aiming to continue their unbeaten start to the season.

And, according to GIVEMESPORT, the boss is toying with the idea of dropping Kai Havertz into midfield and allowing Sterling to lead the attack.

The outlet have reported that Arsenal were able to secure Sterling's signature without the need to fork out a loan fee and with an obligation to pay no more than half his wages due to the last-minute nature of the negotiations.

And there is a growing possibility that he will be named in the starting line-up against the Lilywhites.

"It's an unbelievable feeling. It's really exciting," Sterling said after completing his switch to the Emirates Stadium. "It is one where we kind of left it late, but it's one I was hoping for.

"Looking at everything, I'm just like, 'This is a perfect fit for me'. And I'm super happy that we got it over the line.

"I spoke with [sporting director] Edu and I said you can see the real togetherness from Mikel's time here and you see the journey the boys are on. You can see the hunger. And I keep saying again - the togetherness is something I'm looking to be a part of."