Fabrizio Romano makes 'last-minute' Arsenal transfer claim after fresh deal 'agreed'

With Merino heading into Emirates Stadium, Arsenal still need to offload players who are not part of their plans in a bid to balance the books. Though, there is also the question of getting fringe players who might have a chance in the future regular game time. Fabio Vieira falls into that category, and he will now head out on loan.

The Athletic say FC Porto have now agreed a season-long loan deal for Vieira, who needs to be playing having struggled for game time since his 2022 arrival. The 24-year-old has 33 league appearances to his name as a Gunner.

Elsewhere, Arsenal could still bring in another player to add to their small haul of Riccardo Calafiori, David Raya and - soon to be - Merino. But according to transfer ‘insider’ Fabrizio Romano, talk of a big signing like Athletic Club’s Nico Williams is wide of the mark.

“In terms of opportunities, I would keep, in Arsenal’s case, the door open,” Romano told Give Me Sport. “Still nothing imminent, still nothing closer, but Arsenal are considering opportunities on the market, so I would keep the door open for a last-minute chance.

“I don't think it's going to be something very big. I see rumours on players like Nico Williams. I don't think Arsenal will do something like that, I think if they decide to do something, it's going to be something for a back-up and opportunity in the final days.” The summer transfer window closes on August 30.