Arsenal have had a relatively quiet transfer window so far, which is understandable considering their nearly perfect 2023-24 season. The Gunners came agonizingly close to dethroning Manchester City, finishing just two points shy of their first Premier League title since 2004.
However, Mikel Arteta knows that small improvements are necessary if they are to finally topple Pep Guardiola’s City, who remain relentless in their pursuit of success. Arsenal’s campaign began on a high note with a 2-0 victory over Wolves, courtesy of goals from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka. The starting lineup was familiar to fans, with Riccardo Calafiori, a summer signing from Bologna, being the only new face on the bench.
As the transfer window enters its final week, things are starting to get more intriguing for the Gunners. Arsenal have been linked with a move for Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman. Journalist Alfredo Pudella claims that Arsenal have tabled a bid of €50 million plus the exchange of defender Jakub Kiwior to secure the Nigerian international. Lookman, who previously played for Everton, has been impressive in Serie A, and his arrival would strengthen Arsenal’s attacking options. However, Liverpool are also rumored to be interested in the 26-year-old, who made headlines last season by scoring a stunning hat-trick in Atalanta’s Europa League final triumph over Bayer Leverkusen.
In addition to Lookman, Arsenal are reportedly close to signing midfielder Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad. According to Marca, the Spanish international is expected to complete his move to the Emirates today, with a fee of €35 million agreed upon. The 28-year-old was notably absent from training on Wednesday as he prepares for his switch to North London. Merino’s arrival would add depth and quality to Arsenal’s midfield, giving Arteta more options as he looks to challenge on multiple fronts.
Meanwhile, Eddie Nketiah is on the verge of a £30 million move to Nottingham Forest, according to football.london. The funds from the sale of the English striker would provide Arsenal with the financial flexibility to make further additions to their squad before the transfer window closes. It also aligns with the club’s strategy of operating sustainably while strengthening the team.
Arsenal might also allow goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale to leave before the end of the month, with Wolves and Ajax both reportedly interested in taking him on loan. Ramsdale’s opportunities for first-team action are expected to be limited following the permanent signing of David Raya from Brentford. If Ramsdale does depart, Arsenal could turn their attention to Espanyol stopper Joan Garcia. The Athletic reports that Garcia, who impressed in La Liga last season, has a €25 million release clause and would fit Arteta’s preference for a ball-playing goalkeeper.
Lastly, Arsenal are rumored to have an “outside chance” of signing Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, according to Corriere dello Sport. The Gunners are open to bringing in a new forward and could potentially land Osimhen for a reduced price of £85.2 million, a significant discount for a player of his caliber. With the transfer window nearing its close, Arsenal fans can expect a flurry of activity as their club looks to make the final moves necessary to build on last season’s success.
