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What sources close to Arsenal are saying about Mikel Arteta’s transfer plans ahead of deadline day

Arsenal aren’t done yet in the transfer market as Mikel Arteta looks to assemble a squad that can compete on all fronts.

Riccardo Calafiori has been their only summer signing so far, but a deal to bring Mikel Merino to the Emirates Stadium has been agreed, with the midfielder set to sign a four-year contract imminently.

A lot of movement is expected to occur between now and the end of the month, both in terms of incomings and outgoings.

And a report from has detailed the state of play at Arsenal ahead of what could be a pivotal period for them in the transfer market.

Mikel Arteta wants another forward at Arsenal

Photo by Sergio Ruiz / Pressinphoto / Icon Sport
Photo by Sergio Ruiz / Pressinphoto / Icon Sport

Arteta believes the Gunners could do well with another forward to bolster their attack, but there is a belief that top target Nico Williams is almost ‘unattainable’ at this stage of the transfer window.

Fabrizio Romano confirmed earlier this week that there’s nothing concrete between Arsenal and Williams, who has a £48m release clause in his contract at Athletic Bilbao.

It remains to be seen if Arsenal pursue alternatives to the Spaniard, although a lot of their transfer business could depend on further outgoings.

Eddie Nketiah is open to an Arsenal departure and is wanted by several clubs before the transfer deadline, while Aaron Ramsdale is another player who could be on his way out in the coming days.

The latter’s potential departure will necessitate a transfer as Arsenal would need a number two goalkeeper to deputise for David Raya.

Joan Garcia has been identified as Ramsdale’s replacement and the Gunners could press ahead with a deal for the Spaniard if the situation calls for it.

Arsenal should compete regardless of further transfer activity

All the talk in the upcoming days is likely to be centered around the transfer market, but the fact of the matter is that Arsenal already have a strong squad.

Having fallen desperately short over the last couple of seasons to Manchester City, the Gunners will finally look to get their hands on the Premier League trophy this time around.

Arteta boasts a strong squad without any glaring weaknesses and the additions are Merino and Calafiori are set to bolster their ranks further.

Arsenal could yet add a player or two to their squad, but even if the window slams shut today, they have the required firepower to mount another title challenge.