All the latest Arsenal transfer news and rumours, including updates on Mikel Merino, Viktor Gyokeres and Julian Alvarez
Mikel Merino of Real Sociedad celebrates after scoring his team second goal during the LaLiga EA Sports match between RCD Mallorca and Real Sociedad at Estadi de Son Moix on February 18, 2024
Arsenal discover major Mikel Merino transfer breakthrough
Arsenal have a tight transfer deadline if Mikel Arteta wants new signings before the Premier League opener against Wolves.
In just under two weeks, the Gunners will kick off their 2024/25 campaign and thus far only one new senior arrival, in Riccardo Calafiori, has been confirmed. The Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino remains a summer target with a major update on a final transfer decision now coming to light.
Manchester City star Julian Alvarez is another to have been linked to an Emirates Stadium switch with several other interested parties having already made contact with his camp. Elsewhere, Eddie Nketiah could seal a departure from his boyhood club with Marseille chasing his signature and now a huge hint has been dropped.
With all of that being said, stay with us on football.london for the latest Arsenal transfer news and rumours with regular updates to come throughout the day!
Kieran King
Raphinha interest
Arsenal are interested in signing Raphinha from Barcelona, according to Mundo Deportivo. The Brazilian has dropped down the pecking order at Barca following the emergence of 17-year-old Spain sensation Lamine Yamal.
Raphinha still managed to score 10 goals and add 13 assists in 37 appearances last season – a solid return considering he found himself in and out of the starting XI. But Hansi Flick could now allow the 26-year-old to leave the club, two years since moving from Leeds.
It’s reported that the Gunners are prepared to pay £42million for the Barcelona winger, though they are expected to face competition from Newcastle for his signature.
Raphinha has been linked with a move to Arsenal Arsenal sharpshooters
Arsenal looking sharp in shooting training, with Eddie Nketiah, who has been linked with a move to Marseille this summer, involved.
Kieran King
Zinchenko hint
Oleksandr Zinchenko will wear the No.17 shirt for Arsenal this season, hinting that he is set to stay at the Emirates.
The Ukranian has been linked with a move away after dropping down the pecking order last season, but the matter of fact that he has decided to swap shirt numbers is a huge hint he might now stay.
Explaining the reason for his shirt number change, he said: “The number 17 is a very special number to me. It was the number I wore as a young player, and I’ve always requested to wear 17 when playing for my country.
“With 17 being free since Cedric left, I asked if I could change, and thanks to everyone at the club for supporting me. It’s also very important to say that if anyone has bought this season’s new shirt directly from the club with my name and 35 on it, they can get an exchange to my new number.”
Oleksandr Zinchenko’s Arsenal future remains uncertain despite continuation at left back
In a dramatic transfer twist, Arsenal goalkeeper Karl Hein is now set to join La Liga side Real Valladolid, according to London News Online.
The 22-year-old had looked poised to move to League One side Charlton, but Valladolid, who won promotion back to the top tier of Spanish football back in May, have hijacked the move.
It’s said that Hein, who featured in every game for the Gunners during their pre-season tour of the United States, feels like he cannot turn down the chance to play in La Liga.
Merino deal
Arsenal are said to be ‘completely focused’ on signing Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino, according to Fabrizio Romano. Merino has been linked with a move to the Emirates this summer after impressing for Spain at Euro 2024.
And now, it has been reported that the Gunners are trying to complete an agreement for the midfielder to join the club from Sociedad. A fee of around £25million has been mentioned.
Mikel Merino has been linked with a move to Arsenal in recent weeks
Kieran King
Butler-Oyedeji wanted
Arsenal forward Nathan Butler-Oyedeji is wanted by Belgian duo Standard Liege and Eupen in a permanent deal, according to Football Insider.
It’s understood Arsenal are prepared to let the 21-year-old leave the club before the end of the window as he has fallen down the pecking order at the Emirates.
Nathan Butler-Oyedeji could leave Arsenal this summer
Charlton want Hein
Charlton are set to sign Arsenal goalkeeper Karl Hein on loan, according to London News Online.
The 22-year-old featured for the Gunners in their three pre-season matches in the United States in the absence of David Raya and Aaron Ramsdale, but is now set to join the Addicks on loan.
Jake Stokes
Cherki could be on the move
According to Sky Sports Germany journalist Philipp Hinze, RB Leipzig have entered the race to sign Rayan Cherki. The 20-year-old forward was heavily linked with a move to the Premier League last year, but a switch never materialised.
The report states that the Olympique Lyonnais ace has emerged a ‘top candidate’ to replace Dani Olmo, who’d edging closer to joining Barcelona this summer. It’s said that ‘positive’ talks have already taken place, with the French club expected to demand between €15m and €20m all-in for Cherki
Hinze adds that a move to Borussia Dortmund is currently off after Nuri Sahin blocked the move.
Arsenal have missed out on a top signing
“Julian Alvarez would be a great signing for Arsenal,” William Gallas told Genting Casino. “He is a world champion, Copa America winner, won the Premier League twice in a row and won the Champions League.
“He has played most of City’s important games and is a starter for Argentina, he would bring so much winning experience to Arsenal and he looks like a player that wants to reach his very highest level by playing as many minutes as possible.
“Alvarez would take Arsenal to the next level, I don’t know if he could score 20 goals but he can play on the flank or behind the striker and be very influential.”
Julian Alvarez of Manchester City is applauding their fans after the Premier League match between Fulham and Manchester City at Craven Cottage in London, on May 11, 2024.
Jake Stokes
David snubs Roma offer
Arsenal could finally sign Jonathan David this summer. According to the French newspaper L’Equipe, as quoted by the Express, the 24-year-old striker has turned down the chance to join Roma, despite still being keen to leave Lille.
David has been heavily linked with an exit from Stade Pierre-Mauroy for a while now following his impressive performances in Ligue 1. Despite catching the eye, the Canadian international has remained at Lille.
Now, he could finally leave having entered the final 12 months of his contract…
Jonathan David has been linked with a move to Arsenal
Simons explains transfer decision
RB Leipzig have re-signed Xavi Simons on loan from Paris Saint-Germain for the upcoming season. The Netherlands international was once linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium a couple of years ago.
“I got everything I wanted from my move to Leipzig,” said Simons. “I joined a great team and felt everyone’s trust and belief in me. I was able to develop as both a player and a person – RB Leipzig is the perfect place for you to do that.”
The 21-year-old attacking midfielder added: “On top of that, the club really value me and made it clear over the last few months that they would like to sign me. They highlighted a clear and concise plan for me for the coming season.”
Xavi Simons featured for the Netherlands at Euro 2024
Jake Stokes
Newcastle chase Guehi’s signature
According to Sky Sports, Newcastle have had a bid rejected by Crystal Palace for Marc Guehi. The 24-year-old defender was briefly linked with a move to Arsenal earlier this summer as Mikel Arteta looked to bolster his backline.
The report states that the Magpies are expected to return with an increased offer. It’s said that talks shall continue over the potential transfer of the England international.
Sky Sports add that Crystal Palace want £60m for Guehi, who’s expected to agree personal terms with Eddie Howe’s side…
Marc Guehi during the UEFA EURO 2024 final match between Spain and England.
Jake Stokes
More on Merino…
According to The Athletic, Arsenal remain interested in Mikel Merino. The report states that Mikel Arteta ‘hugely admirers’ the Real Sociedad midfielder, but the Gunners are still exploring their options in the transfer market.
It’s said that the 28-year-old has an offer to stay in the Basque Country, but he would be keen to join Arsenal if an agreement can be reached. The Athletic add that any attacking reinforcements would most likely hinge on further outgoings.
Mikel Merino has been linked with a move to Arsenal in recent weeks
Williams makes final decision…
According to Spanish newspaper Marca, Nico Williams will stay at Athletic Bilbao after rejecting several offers. The 22-year-old winger was heavily linked with a move to the Premier League following his impressive performances for Spain at Euro 2024.
The report states that Williams snubbed two proposals from Aston Villa last season before turning down offers from Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona this summer. The Spaniard has now returned from his holiday and reported for duty at the San Mamés Stadium.
Nico Williams has been linked with a move to Arsenal, Barcelona and PSG this summer (Image: Anadolu via Getty Images)
10:30
Jake Stokes
Chiesa to Arsenal?!
Arsenal have been given a major boost to their hopes of signing Federico Chiesa. The Juventus winger, who sees his contract in Turin expire next year, was left out of the squad which faced Brest in a friendly on Saturday.
Speaking to Sky Sport Italia, Thiago Motta said: “Chiesa is out for transfer market reasons, both him and the others who stayed at home, except Miretti who is injured.
“We were clear with them. They are good but they have to look for solutions where they can play more. Both for Chiesa and the others these are decisions made. We have to improve day by day and give joy to the fans who come to support this team and they deserve it.
“It is important to prepare well and improve in the game we want to see. I have seen an improvement from the first game, it is normal within a growth path.”
Federico Chiesa looks to have been axed from Juventus’ plans
Jake Stokes
Calafiori and Timber injury concern raised
Riccardo Calafiori has not been the only absentee in Arsenal training recently – so too has Jurrien Timber. The Dutch international missed the majority of last season with a serious knee injury and there has been plenty of hype surrounding the defender.
However, he too missed the game against Liverpool and football.london were told that the reason behind the absence was due to rest. Having featured regularly on the tour, managing Timber’s minutes was a priority.
The Dutchman’s lack of exposure in the weekend’s media has naturally raised suspicions and worries. The Gunners’ game against Leverkusen on Wednesday should provide the clarity needed for both player’s situations.
Riccardo Calafiori and Jurrien Timber raise Arsenal injury concern
Alvarez ‘deal agreed’
According to MailOnline journalist Jack Gaughan, Atletico Madrid have reached an agreement with Manchester City to sign Julian Alvarez. The 24-year-old striker was briefly linked with a move to Arsenal and Chelsea this summer as he looked to leave the Premier League champions.
The report states that Diego Simone’s side will pay an initial €75m (£64.3m) for Alvarez, plus an additional €20m (£17.2m) in performance-based add-ons. Atletico look set to wrap up a deal for the Argentina international before putting the final touches on a deal for Conor Gallagher…
Julian Alvarez is being reportedly monitored by Arsenal
Jake Stokes
Nketiah could be offloaded
Eddie Nketiah has attracted interest from a number of Premier League clubs, but Marseille have made the most front-footed move to sign him as things stand. It’s a move that the 25-year-old is open to, with the chance to work under Roberto De Zerbi viewed as particularly appealing.
However, reports have suggested the French side intend to propose an initial loan deal with an option to buy for €20million. While it would undoubtedly be a great move for Nketiah who would surely clean up in Ligue 1, it would represent a terrible piece of business for Arsenal.
Although Nketiah is arguably Arsenal’s fourth choice striker behind Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus and Leandro Trossard right now, the 25-year-old is still a player who should attract a decent fee in this market.
Nketiah could be heading out of the Emirates Stadium this summer
Rabiot interest
Arsenal have shown ‘significant interest’ in signing free agent Adrien Rabiot following his departure from Juventus, according to TuttoJuve. The 29-year-old midfielder is currently without a club after his contract expired at the Old Lady back in June.
He’s said to be prioritising a move to a Champions League club, which is an advantage Arsenal have over some potential suitors, including Manchester United.
Adrien Rabiot during the UEFA EURO 2024 round of 16 match between France and Belgium. Ramsdale decision
Arsenal have refused to rule out a loan move for Aaron Ramsdale before the end of the window, according to GIVEMESPORT. Ramsdale, who joined the Gunners for £24m from Sheffield United three years ago, made just six Premier League – and eight in all competitions – appearances last season.
The England international dropped down to second-choice after David Raya joined the club from Brentford and is now open to leaving the Emirates in search of regular game time, with Southampton among those interested. Ramsdale has two years left on his contract in north London.
Aaron Ramsdale has been linked with a move away from Arsenal this summer
Alvarez talks
According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Fernando Hidalgo is due to fly to England to speak with Manchester City officials this week. Atletico Madrid are said to be keen to sign the striker, who is thought to have a £60m price tag.
Paris Saint-Germain have also been linked with Alvarez – as well as Arsenal and Chelsea, who are both looking for a striker. City have sold Oleksandr Zinchenko and Gabriel Jesus to the Gunners in recent years while Cole Palmer moved to Stamford Bridge last summer.
City are reportedly prepared to play hardball over Alvarez’s fee. Guardiola has never prevented a wantaway player from leaving but City have always been mindful to not sell below worth.
Atletico Madrid are interested in buying Julian Alvarez
Merino latest
So far, it should be stressed that no official offer has yet been made for Mikel Merino. There is certainly interest from Arsenal and contact has been made with the player’s camp as football.london has reported but the major steps are still needed.
It is thought that Mikel Arteta is a big factor in the interest in Merino and it is this which makes a prediction that Merino will arrive to be the safest bet in midfield. Arteta tends to have a greater weight when it comes to discussions over targets shown as recently in the deal for Calafiori.
Relations between the two sides are also very healthy meaning a move could materialise very quickly. Merino is a quality player and has the potential to be a starter for the club next season but his age profile has raised some eyebrows in and outside of the club.
Mikel Merino returned to Real Sociedad training on Monday (Image: Real Sociedad 2024 via X)
Good morning!
Hello and welcome to football.london’s Arsenal blog! Mikel Arteta will be keen to continue strengthening his squad after tying Riccardo Calafiori and David Raya down to long-term deals at the Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners continue to be linked with some big names, like Mikel Merino and Viktor Gyokeres. While the summer transfer window doesn’t slam shut until the end of August, the opening weekend of the new season is on the horizon – so Edu better get a move on!
Riccardo Calafiori and Declan Rice in Arsenal training (Image: Arsenal/Stuart MacFarlane)
Parlour on Smith Rowe
Former Arsenal midfielder Ray Parlour has described Emile Smith Rowe’s move to Fulham as a “great” deal for all parties.
He said: “The deal is great for both parties. Fulham are getting an excellent player and Smith Rowe has a good opportunity to prove Arteta wrong.
“If he puts his head down, stays fit, works hard and gets back into that form he showed at Arsenal, he could be pushing back into England’s squad.”
Smith Rowe debut goal
Emile Smith Rowe has scored within seven minutes of his Fulham debut against Sevilla. It’s some header, too.
Zinchenko confidence
Oleksandr Zinchenko is confident Arsenal have what it takes to achieve success this season, after missing out on the Premier League title to Manchester City for the last two years.
He said, as quoted by Standard Sport: “Obviously, I think we have everything. An amazing squad, amazing coaching staff, a lot of fans around the world supporting and pushing us forward.
“I don’t see any reason why we can’t achieve everything that we want. Of course it’s going to be super tough. Only God knows what will be. For sure we will give our best to make our dreams happen.”
According to Internacional TimeLine, Arsenal are eager to pursue a deal for talanted Brazilian attacking midfielder Gabriel Carvalho.
Carvalho signed his first contract with Internacional last August and made his debut in June at the age of just 16. He is rated at around £21.5million, despite only making one Serie A appearance.
Arsenal had made Newcastle forward Alexander Isak their top target during the summer transfer window.
However, the Gunners did not want to be drawn into a transfer saga, report The Independent.
Newcastle have rejected Arsenal’s advances, with Mikel Arteta’s side now looking at alternative targets. Victor Osimhen and Ivan Toney have both since been linked with a move to the Emirates.
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