Alexis Sanchez is set to make his Arsenal return against Liverpool next week with Arsene Wenger revealing he is a doubt for the trip to Stoke.
The Chilean has been struggling with an abdominal injury which forced him out of the opening weekend win over Leicester.
Sanchez didn't feature in pre-season due to the Confederations Cup amid uncertainty over his future and his injury has only fuelled speculation over a move.
Manchester City are now preparing a £50m bid for Sanchez , who is entering the final year of his contract at the Emirates.
Wenger confirmed there had been "no progress" on a new contract before discussing the 28-year-old's fitness.
"It looks a little early but he is working hard in training," Wenger said.
"His recovery is going well. It is a muscular strain so you have to be careful."
Sanchez is expected to be given a week to continue his recovery before the trip to Anfield.
Wenger also confirmed Per Mertesacker, Shkodran Mustafi and Francis Coquelin will be back in the squad for the trip to Stoke.