Arsenal have been given the green light for a bargain transfer with two significant updates.
A £50m deal has been agreed, providing a boost to their midfield options for the upcoming season.
Latest news reveals that Mikel Merino is emerging as a potential signing, following Amadou Onana’s decision to join Aston Villa.
Arsenal’s search for a new midfielder continues, with Thomas Partey’s potential exit making it a top priority.
The likes of Bruno Guimaraes, Douglas Luiz, and Martin Zubimendi have been linked, but a deal for them seems unlikely.
Instead, focus is shifting towards potential signings like Mikel Merino, as the club looks to strengthen their squad for the 2024/25 campaign.
Earlier this week, reports surfaced that AC Milan and Fofana had reached an agreement on personal terms, while negotiations with Monaco were still ongoing.
Despite the possibility of a last-minute move from the Premier League, it was emphasized that the 25-year-old’s priority was to join Milan.
On the other hand, Onana is reportedly close to completing a £50 million transfer to Aston Villa, according to David Ornstein of The Athletic.
With Onana and Fofana seemingly out of reach, Arsenal’s options in midfield are diminishing, although Merino remains a target with new developments regarding his future.
As Merino is currently with Spain in the European Championship final against England on Sunday, it is unlikely that there will be any progress on a transfer despite Arsenal’s interest.
Given that the 28-year-old’s contract expires next summer, Arsenal will be looking to negotiate a deal, especially since Arteta is a big admirer of his physical attributes.
Estadio Deportivo reports that Sociedad is asking for just €30million (£25m) to sell Merino this summer, with Atletico Madrid and Barcelona also showing interest in the midfielder.
Merino is rumored to have a £55million release clause in his contract, but that amount could decrease significantly as he nears the final 12 months of his current deal.
Despite this, the Gunners may still have to sell players before making additional signings.
Players such as Thomas Partey, Eddie Nketiah, Emile Smith Rowe, and Aaron Ramsdale have all been linked to potential exits, while Nuno Tavares and Albert Sambi Lokonga have already finalized their departures.
