As the summer transfer window reaches its final days, Arsenal is gearing up for a busy conclusion with manager Mikel Arteta and sporting director Edu working tirelessly to complete the squad for the upcoming season.
The Gunners have so far made only one major signing, securing Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna to bolster their squad.
However, more activity is anticipated in the coming hours, particularly in terms of both incoming and outgoing transfers.
Incoming Transfers: Strengthening the Midfield
Arsenal is expected to finalize the signing of Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad shortly, which will add significant depth to their midfield.
Merino, known for his versatility and tactical intelligence, is likely to become an integral part of Arsenal’s setup under Arteta.
This acquisition is seen as crucial for the Gunners as they aim to enhance their squad’s quality and competitiveness, particularly in the midfield area where they have sought additional strength.
Departures: Reshaping the Squad
While Arsenal has been bringing in new players, several first-team members have already departed the Emirates in search of new opportunities.
Among the notable exits are Emile Smith Rowe, Nuno Tavares, and Albert Sambi Lokonga.
These departures reflect Arsenal’s strategy of reshaping the squad to better align with Arteta’s vision and the team’s long-term objectives.
Smith Rowe, once considered one of Arsenal’s brightest young talents, has moved on after struggling to secure a consistent place in the starting lineup.
Nuno Tavares, who had a mixed spell at the club, has also left, as has Lokonga, who did not manage to fully establish himself in Arteta’s plans.
These exits signify a shift in focus towards players who can consistently perform at the level required for Arsenal to compete at the highest levels.
Eddie Nketiah: A Significant Departure
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, another key departure is imminent.
Eddie Nketiah, who has been a pivotal player for Arsenal in recent seasons, is set to join Crystal Palace.
Romano, known for his reliable transfer news, has confirmed the deal with his trademark “here we go” phrase, indicating that the transfer is on the brink of completion.
The agreement between Arsenal and Crystal Palace is reported to be worth £25 million, with an additional £5 million in potential add-ons.
Nketiah accepted the move to Palace two days ago and is now set to undergo a medical to finalize the transfer.
His departure marks the end of a significant chapter at Arsenal, where he was seen as a key figure, particularly in the forward line.
Arsenal has been working for weeks to arrange a move for Nketiah, and this transfer window seems to be the one where everything has aligned.
Earlier in the window, Nketiah had reached personal terms with Marseille, but the French club failed to meet Arsenal’s valuation.
Similarly, Nottingham Forest had agreed on a financial package with Arsenal but could not settle personal terms with the player.
Ultimately, Nketiah’s move to Crystal Palace keeps him in the Premier League, allowing him to continue his career in London, which has always been close to his heart.
Crystal Palace will be acquiring a player with considerable potential and a proven track record.
Gabriel Jesus, Nketiah’s Arsenal teammate, once described him as “unbelievable,” highlighting the talent that Palace will benefit from.
At Palace, Nketiah is expected to take on a leading role, and he will be eager to prove himself as he embarks on this new chapter in his career.
Potential Arsenal Signings: Winger Search Continues
On the incoming transfer front, Arsenal is also reportedly looking to add a backup winger to their ranks.
This player would serve as cover for Bukayo Saka, who has been a critical player on the right flank.
According to David Ornstein, Arsenal has been linked with players such as Nico Williams and Ademola Lookman, although it remains to be seen whether the Gunners will secure either of these targets before the transfer window closes.
The search for a new winger underscores Arsenal’s intent to build a squad with depth and versatility, particularly as they prepare for a season that will likely involve competing on multiple fronts.
Whether or not Arsenal will make a significant move for a winger in the final days of the window is still uncertain, but it is clear that Arteta and Edu are focused on ensuring the team is well-equipped to meet the challenges ahead.
