And now it would appear that the Gunners are intent on bringing him back to England. According to Mundo Deportivo, manager Mikel Arteta is ‘personally trying to convince’ his compatriot to join his ranks this summer. Merino has a year left on his deal with current club Real Sociedad and has a £54.9 million release clause, although he is likely to be available for a lot less. Indeed, the La Liga outfit will reportedly consider selling him this summer if he rejects the offer of a contract renewal and a ‘good sum of money’ is presented to them.
The 3AM Verdict: Merino has shone brightly since leaving Newcastle, and has proven himself to be a hugely talented midfield dictator with plenty of poise and pedigree. If Arsenal could bring him in for a fair amount less than his £55 million asking price, then this could end up being a smart piece of business from the Gunners.
Villa bid for Anguissa
Elsewhere, according to Italian outlet Il Mattino, as relayed by CalcioNapoli24, Aston Villa have made a bid to sign ex-Fulham midfielder Andre Zambo Anguissa. The 28-year-old is currently at Napoli, and the Serie A giants are understood to have rejected the Villans’ offer without hesitation.
It is claimed that Anguissa is considered to be ‘untouchable’ by his new manager, Antonio Conte, and that they have no intention of entertaining any approaches for the Cameroonian this summer. As such, it is unclear whether Villa will return with an improved package. Anguissa’s current contract in Naples expires in 2025, but does include an option to extend it for two more years.
The 3AM Verdict: This does not sound overly promising for Villa. Napoli are evidently intent on keeping hold of the midfielder, and the options that now present themselves are that they succeed in doing so, or that Unai Emery’s men pay well over the odds for his signature. Either way, Villa might be best advised to look elsewhere.
United in talks with Evans
And finally, the Manchester Evening News reports that Manchester United are holding talks with free agent Jonny Evans over a possible return to Old Trafford next season. The Northern Irishman was out of contract last month, and has officially left the club, but negotiations are underway as the Red Devils decide whether or not to extend his second stint in the red half of Manchester.
Transfer chiefs are expected to overhaul United’s defensive line ahead of the new campaign, but could turn to Evans in an effort to provide added depth following an unexpectedly involved role in Erik ten Hag’s first team plans last term.
The 3AM Verdict: This might not be the worst idea in the world. Evans did well enough when called upon last season, and his quality and experience may prove to be valuable, even if used sparingly. While United should still be looking to sign another elite centre-back or two, having Evans in reserve, especially with a European campaign ahead of them, may end up being rather wise.
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