Arsenal transfer news update: Gunners to rival Barcelona for Mikel Merino & Nico Williams

Arsenal have had a fairly quiet summer transfer window thus far, although they’re expected to kick things up a notch as we approach the 2024/25 Premier League curtain raiser.

The Gunners have signed David Raya on a permanent deal from Brentford, while Riccardo Calafiori has also joined Mikel Arteta’s squad after protracted negotiations with Bologna.

Arsenal are still expected to bolster Arteta’s squad further with a couple more additions. They want to sign a left-back, a midfielder, and a wide player.

The Gunners could also be forced to enter the market for a back-up goalkeeper if Aaron Ramsdale leaves the club, with Newcastle United showing interest in the England international.

Arsenal have Spanish duo Mikel Merino and Nico Williams on their radar, but they’re facing serious competition from La Liga giants Barcelona, who are also known admirers of both players.

However, Merino has set his sights on a return to the Premier League after a brief stint with Newcastle, while Williams could remain at Athletic Bilbao unless Arsenal make a last-ditch attempt to sign him this summer.

If Barca manage to sign Williams this summer, match tickets could be sold at a premium. However, seatsnet.com remains the best marketplace to get Barcelona tickets at unbeatable prices.

Merino waiting for Arsenal, move a matter of time

Arsenal are closing in on a deal to bring Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino to the Emirates Stadium, according to recent reports from Spain.

The Gunners have been linked with a move for the 28-year-old for several weeks, with Arteta keen to strengthen his midfield options ahead of the new Premier League season. 

While the club have already secured the signings of Raya and Calafiori, there has been a growing expectation for a more high-profile arrival, given their lofty ambitions of challenging Manchester City for the Premier League title.

Merino, who has impressed in La Liga, is believed to have agreed personal terms with Arsenal, paving the way for a potential move. However, a formal offer has yet to be submitted to Sociedad.

The Spanish club value the midfielder at £52 million, but with his contract expiring next summer, the Gunners are hopeful of securing a deal for around half that price.

Arsenal’s summer transfer business has been relatively quiet so far, which has raised eyebrows considering their strong finish to the previous campaign.

Landing a player of Merino’s calibre would be a shrewd move from the Gunners, considering his recent impressive performances for Spain at this summer’s European Championship tournament in Germany.

The midfielder played a part as Spain secured an unprecedented fourth Euros title, and his addition would add some much-needed experience and a winning mentality to Arteta’s squad.

The Gunners have freed up funds and squad space following the departure of Emile Smith Rowe to Fulham, and the north London outfit are keen to invest wisely.

Merino has emerged as a top target for Arsenal boss Arteta. The versatile midfielder has expressed his desire to embark on a new challenge, and the Emirates Stadium has emerged as a potential destination.

Renowned for his defensive prowess and ability to contribute offensively, Merino’s all-round game has caught the attention of several top clubs.

Merino would be a solid acquisition for the left-sided central midfield position. During the 2023/24 campaign, he won the most duels across Europe’s top-five leagues.

He was also impressive with his recoveries, tackling and creativity in the final third. The ex-Newcastle star registered eight goals and five assists last term.

However, Arsenal face stiff competition for the Spaniard’s signature. Barca have also registered their interest in Merino, and the Spanish giants could throw a wrench in Arsenal’s summer plans.

Barca are currently focused on finalising a deal to sign RB Leipzig midfielder Dani Olmo, but they could switch their attention to Merino after he signs his contract.

With time running out in the transfer window, Arsenal must accelerate their efforts to secure Merino’s services and beat Barca to his signature.

Williams likely to remain at Athletic despite interest from Arsenal & Barca

Arsenal are serious contenders in the race to sign Athletic Bilbao’s dazzling winger, Nico Williams.

The 21-year-old captured the attention of Europe’s elite with his electrifying performances in La Liga and at Euro 2024.

Williams’ blistering pace, coupled with his exceptional dribbling ability and eye for goal, have made him one of the most sought-after young talents on the continent. 

His standout campaign, which saw him contribute directly to 27 goals in 37 appearances, has alerted European clubs, with Arsenal, Chelsea, and Barca all vying for his signature.

The Spaniard carried over his form to Euro 2024, where he recorded two goals and an assist while creating four big chances, spurring Spain to the title in Germany.

Arsenal and Chelsea have Williams on their wishlist and want to lure him to the Premier League this summer, but Barca are also keen on securing his services and are expected to make a strong push to bring him to the Spotify Camp Nou.

Arteta is believed to be a keen admirer of the Spanish international, viewing him as an ideal addition to his attacking arsenal. 

Williams’ versatility to play on either flank would provide Arsenal with much-needed depth and creativity. His ability to create chances, score goals, and contribute defensively makes him a complete forward.

He would be a statement signing for the Gunners. He predominantly played from the left wing for Athletic last season. He made 85% of his appearances from the role with 26 goal contributions.

However, the youngster is also comfortable operating from the other flank. In 2022/23, Williams registered seven goals and six assists from the right wing.

Williams’ immense potential would make him a statement signing if Arsenal or Barca were to pull off a deal to land his signature.

The Spaniard averaged almost three take-ons per game last term. He also worked hard defensively, with an average of 4.2 recoveries and 5.2 duels won.

Williams would be an ideal deputy for Arsenal talisman Bukayo Saka on the right wing.

He could also get the opportunity to push for a starting berth in the Premier League ahead of Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli on the left flank.

The winger currently has a release clause worth £47m, which should be affordable for Arsenal, although it remains to be seen whether Barca can stump up such figures due to their financial situation. 

The big question remains whether Williams would be prepared to accept a reduced role with the Gunners, having been an undisputed starter for his boyhood club.

Arsenal are yet to act on their interest, and Chelsea are currently focused on other targets.

Barca just spent a fortune to sign Olmo. Unless there’s a major change towards the end of the transfer window, the talented forward could remain at Bilbao for at least one more season.