With Thomas Partey's departure looking increasingly likely, the Gunners are prioritising finding a suitable replacement ahead of the 2024/25 season, as reported by football.london over recent months.
Transfer targets Bruno Guimaraes, Douglas Luiz, and Martin Zubimendi have all caught the eye at the Emirates Stadium, but securing any of these players seems a tall order. As a result, Mikel Merino, Amadou Onana, and Youssouf Fofana have been linked with Arsenal, although the latter two look set for moves elsewhere.
Earlier this week, it emerged that AC Milan and Fofana have agreed personal terms, with negotiations over a fee with Monaco still ongoing. While a last-minute hijack is always a possibility, it was also revealed the 25-year-old has prioritised a move to Milan.
Meanwhile, Onana is reportedly close to sealing a transfer to Aston Villa. With Onana and Fofana seemingly out of reach, Arsenal's midfield options are thinning, though Merino remains on the radar with two new developments regarding his future.
Given that Merino and Spain are due to face England in Sunday's Euro 2024 final, it's unlikely there will be any immediate progress on a transfer despite Arsenal's interest. However, with the 28-year-old's contract set to expire next summer, Arsenal will be hoping to negotiate a deal, particularly given Arteta's admiration for his physical prowess.
Spanish source Estadio Deportivo reports that Sociedad is willing to let Merino go for a mere €30million ($32.8 million) this summer, with Atletico Madrid and Barcelona also monitoring the situation.
Despite having a £55 million ($69.9 million) release clause in his contract, Merino's price could see a significant reduction as he approaches the last year of his current deal. However, Arsenal may still need to make some sales before it can bring in new faces.
Players like Thomas Partey, Eddie Nketiah, Emile Smith Rowe, and Aaron Ramsdale have all been rumoured to be on their way out of north London, with Nuno Tavares and Albert Sambi Lokonga already confirmed departures.
Liverpool.com says: Merino has impressed for Spain at the Euros this summer. If Arsenal can sign the midfielder, that would only strengthen one of Liverpool's big rivals. It will also put pressure on Arne Slot and his Liverpool colleagues to act in the transfer market.
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