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Arsenal finished second, behind Manchester City, in the Premier League last season and are seeking improvements to their squad this summer. Manager Mikel Arteta is expected to invest wisely in his roster to bridge the gap with the top teams in Europe.
Meanwhile, the Gunners are interested in Rennes forward Desire Doue. Elsewhere, the north London side could sign Mikel Merino for a reduced fee this summer.
On that note, here's a look at the key Arsenal transfer stories as on July 14, 2024:
Arsenal eyeing Desire Doue
Arsenal have set their sights on Desire Doue, according to L'Equipe. The French left-winger was a revelation for Rennes last season, registering four goals and six assists in 43 games across competitions. His efforts have forced Arteta to take note.
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The manager is looking for attacking reinforcements this summer to share the goalscoring load with the likes of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli. Doue could be a fine fit but is also being eyed by Chelsea. The Ligue 1 club reportedly want €60 million to let him go.
The race for the 19-year-old is likely to heat up in the coming days, with Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich also known to be his admirers. The player is under contract with Rennes till 2026, so Rennes hold the upper hand in any negotiations.
Gunners learn Mikel Merino price
Mikel Merino could be available for just €30 million this summer, according to Estadio Deportivo. Arteta is looking for a new midfielder this summer and has apparently identified his countryman as an option.
Merino enjoyed a fantastic 2023-24 campaign with Real Sociedad, registering eight goals and five assists in 45 games across competitions. However, the player has entered the final year of his contract but hasn't signed an extension yet.
The 28-year-old has a £55 million release clause, but his contract situation makes that option irrelevant. The La Liga side are ready to let him go this summer for a reduced fee amid interest from multiple clubs. The Gunners are also among his suitors as they look for Thomas Partey's replacement.
The Ghanaian's contract also expires in 202,5 but he's unlikely to be offered a new deal. Merino could be a fine option to replace the 31-year-old at the Emirates. Arteta is apparently willing to deviate from his youth-centric transfer policy to sign the 28-year-old.
The manager wants a long-term partner for Declan Rice, who has been outstanding since arriving from West Ham United last summer. Merino's expertise and experience could help the Englishman reach his true potential. The Spaniard's leadership qualities would also benefit a relatively young squad.
However, there's a growing interest in the 28-year-old's services, so the north London side will have to move early to get their man. Barcelona and Atletico Madrid also have their eyes on the Spaniard.
Riccardo Calafiori wants Emirates move, says Gianluca Di Marzio
Riccardo Calafiori has his heart set on a move to the Emirates, according to acclaimed journalist Gianluca Di Marzio. The Italian defender is a much sought-after man this summer following a breakthrough campaign with Bologna.
The 22-year-old registered 37 appearances across competitions and has apparently convinced Arteta. The manager is looking for a new defender who can cover at centre-back as well as left-back, and the Italian fits the bill.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Di Marzio said that the player is likely to cost €50 million this year.
“He has a high price because Bologna want €50 million (£42m) plus bonuses plus a percentage (of future sale).
"Arsenal are a bit less in their offer, but I think they will do the deal, yes. I think so (he will join the Gunners) because he wants Arsenal. In his mind, it’s only Arsenal," said Di Marzio.
He continued:
“Even Chelsea tried to get him but the player said ‘no, I want Arsenal’ because I think Arsenal is considered by the player and his agents the perfect step for his career now.”
Chelsea are in the market for defensive reinforcements following Thiago Silva's exit this summer.
