Whether Arsenal expect Mikel Merino to be available v Brighton

Mon 26 August 2024 15:00, UK

Arsenal are set for a busy end to the summer transfer window, with at least one more incoming and one outgoing on the cards.

In terms of new arrivals, the Gunners have signed Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna and look set to add Real Sociedad’s Mikel Merino to their ranks.

As for outgoings, Arsenal have already let several first-teamers leave this summer, and Eddie Nketiah could be next as talks with suitors continue.

Now, Dharmesh Sheth has provided an update on the Merino to Arsenal transfer, including when the Gunners hope he could make his debut.

Dharmesh Sheth says all parties optimistic Mikel Merino will be available for Arsenal v Brighton

Sheth, speaking on , said Arsenal are now finalising a deal for Merino, who has been undergoing his medical over the past few days.

All being well, he will sign off on the personal terms, added the reporter.

All parties are hopeful of getting deal done and registered before Friday’s midday deadline for him to be available for Saturday’s game against Brighton.

Sheth reiterated that the deal is worth £32.5million, including performance related add-ons.

What will Merino bring to Arsenal?

Merino is a “world-class” player in his prime who has proven himself at the highest level and boasts considerable experience as well as a trophy-laden CV.

The 28-year-old has won Euro 2024 and the 2023 Nations League with Spain and has also lifted the Spanish Cup and the German Cup at club level.

recently published an in-depth scouting report about what Merino can bring to Arsenal.

‘Under Imanol Alguacil, Merino has been deployed most frequently as a left-sided No 8, in a 4-3-3 setup not dissimilar to Arteta’s chosen formation for Arsenal,’ they wrote.

‘The Spain international is also more than capable of anchoring a midfield trio or forming a double pivot.

‘His versatility in the middle of the park, combined with Rice’s ability to swap positions, would mean the pair could interchange depending on the opposition and game state.

‘Merino is the type of midfielder Arteta would create in a lab if given the chance.

He is press-resistant, creative, combative and, above all, a duel-winning machine; Merino won more aerial duels (168) than any other midfielder in Europe’s top five leagues last season.

‘Like Rice, who Arsenal paid around £105m for last summer, Merino is an impressively complete midfielder.

‘He can step forward as a No 8 and lead the press, as the Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard often does.

‘But he can also defend deep as a No 6 when required, whether that be alongside another player or on his own.’

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Whether Arsenal expect Mikel Merino to be available v Brighton

Dharmesh Sheth says all parties optimistic Mikel Merino will be available for Arsenal v Brighton

What will Merino bring to Arsenal?