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Arsenal have developed in leaps and bounds under Mikel Arteta recently, finishing second in the Premier League in the past two seasons. The manager is working on his squad to go all the way in the upcoming campaign.
Meanwhile, the Gunners are interested in Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino. Elsewhere, the north London side have set their sights on Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres.
On that note, here's a look at the key Arsenal transfer stories as on July 13, 2024:
Arsenal want Mikel Merino
Arsenal are eager to bring Mikel Merino to the Emirates this summer, according to TEAMtalk. The midfielder has been a regular feature in the starting XI for Real Sociedad over the years and enjoyed a fruitful 2023-24 campaign.
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Merino registered eight goals and five assists in 45 games across competitions. He's currently with La Roja at Euro 2024, and scored a 119th-minute winner over Germany in the 2-1 quarter-final win.
Arteta is looking for midfield reinforcements this summer and initially had his eyes on Martin Zubimendi. However, the 25-year-old has made it clear that he won't leave Sociedad this year, prompting Arteta to turn to Merino.
The player's contract with the La Liga side expires in 2025, but he hasn't signed a new deal yet. Barcelona and Atletico Madrid also have their eyes on the 28-year-old, but the Gunners are leading the race for his services.
The north London side have targeted talented youngsters recently. However, Arteta is convinced by Merino and is willing to make an exception to secure his countryman's signature.
Gunners eyeing Viktor Gyokeres
Arsenal remain on the hunt for Viktor Gyokeres, according to TBR Football. Arteta is looking to reinforce his squad after faltering in the Premier League title race last season.
A new striker remains at the top of his agenda this summer, with neither Gabriel Jesus nor Eddie Nketiah managing to convince. After failing in the pursuit of RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko, Arteta has set his sights on Gyokeres.
The Swede was in exceptional form last season for Sporting, scoring 43 goals and setting up 15 in 50 games across competitions. It was previously believed that Sporting would only let him go for his £85 million release clause.
However, it now appears that the Portuguese clubs are ready to let the 26-year-old leave for £60 million. The Gunners are long-term admirers of the Swede but are likely to face competition from Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool for the player.
Arsenal identify Aaron Ramsdale replacements
Arsenal are eyeing several candidates to replace Aaron Ramsdale this summer, according to acclaimed transfer guru Fabrizio Romano. The English goalkeeper's future at the Emirates is subject to speculation at the moment.
Ramsdale dropped down the pecking order last season following the arrival of David Raya on loan from Brentford. The Spaniard was outstanding between the sticks, and the Gunners have signed him permanently this summer.
The situation has raised questions about Ramsdale's future under Arteta. The Englishman is eager to play regular football, so he could be on his way this summer.
Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Romano named Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper Daniel Bentley and Espanyol's Joan Garcia as possible options to replace Ramsdale.
"Arsenal will consider that move (for a goalkeeper) as soon as they clarify the future of Aaron Ramsdale, and they are still asking for big money for Aaron Ramsdale. That's why it's not an easy deal for him," said Romano.
He continued:
"He (Bentley) is an option too. There is also (Joan) Garcia from Espanyol, who is another possibility they have been considering. He has a release clause of around £25 million.
"They are exploring several options, but the first step needed is to find a solution with Ramsdale. At the moment, I'm told that there is nothing close or imminent."
Ramsdale's contract with the north London side runs till 2026.
