The North London club hasn’t been the most active Premier League team this summer, but their transfer activity has been somewhat more restrained than expected compared to previous years.
Despite this, Mikel Arteta has welcomed Italian international Riccardo Calafiori, and it seems that the signing of Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino is now completed. Recent reports suggest that after extensive speculation, Arsenal has finally secured Merino from Real Sociedad. The transfer was confirmed by Fabrizio Romano and Sky Sports News, with the deal valued around £28 million, potentially rising to £33 million with add-ons.
Merino’s arrival is set to bolster Arsenal’s midfield with additional experience and grit. However, there may be another European star joining the squad before the transfer window closes. Although it initially appeared that Nico Williams would stay with Athletic Bilbao, recent reports indicate that Arsenal might make a final effort to bring him to North London.
According to Miguel Delaney of The Independent, the Gunners are considering a move for Williams despite his preference to remain in Spain. If Arsenal pursues this, they would need to activate Williams’ £48 million release clause, a sum that might be justified given his impressive tally of 27 goals and assists last season.
While both Merino and Williams could be expensive acquisitions, Arsenal already has a valuable asset in their squad: Gabriel Martinelli. The 23-year-old winger, who plays on the left, has had varying seasons but remains a significant figure.
Despite a less stellar season last year, Martinelli scored eight goals and provided five assists in 44 appearances, averaging a goal involvement every 3.38 games. The previous season was more notable, with Martinelli scoring 15 goals and adding six assists in 46 games, demonstrating his potential as a top Premier League winger.
Since joining Arsenal in 2019 for £6 million, Martinelli has made 175 first-team appearances, netting 41 goals and delivering 24 assists. His valuation has risen to approximately €70 million (around £59 million), according to Transfermarkt. Although this is a higher sum than the possible fees for Merino and Williams, Martinelli’s progression and potential justify his valuation, as he continues to develop and enhance his value.
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