Arsenal appear to be at the front of the queue for Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino. It has been reported that Atletico Madrid and Barcelona - two of the other rivals in the race for the 28-year-old - believe Merino is going to give the green light to the Gunners to sign him this summer.
That would be a statement of interest for Mikel Arteta after completing the signing of Riccardo Calafiori for £42million from Bologna on Monday. The Italy international has signed a long-term deal and becomes their second first-team arrival of the window after David Raya's permanent switch was confirmed.
As for those that could leave, Emile Smith Rowe is closing in on a move to Fulham in a deal worth around £35m. Eddie Nketiah, meanwhile, is of interest to Marseille and Reiss Nelson has bene linked with a move to Leicester as the Gunners try and get players out of the exit door.
With all of that being said, stay with us on football.london as we bring you the latest Arsenal transfer news and rumours LIVE from Emirates Stadium!
Kieran King
How Man United agreed Obi-Martin deal
Two Manchester United chiefs played a huge role in agreeing a deal for Chido Obi-Martin to join the club from Arsenal.
As per our sister title the Manchester Evening News, an agreement has been reached for the player, with United's head of the academy, Nick Cox, and the head of academy recruitment, Luke Fedorenko, responsible for the deal to sign Obi-Martin.
Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has also revealed that new assistant coach and United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy spoke directly to the teenager in order to lay out the long-term plan for his progress.
Kieran King
Gyokeres offer
Arsenal are reportedly preparing a bid for Sporting CP forward Viktor Gyokeres, according to Football Transfers.
Gyokeres is still at the top of Arsenal's shortlist for a new forward, although the clubs are still far apart with their respective valuations. Sporting would be willing to accept an offer of around £60million for the Swede, with the Gunners weighing up a new proposal.
Kieran King
Barcelona stance on Williams
Barcelona have practically 'zero chance' of signing Arsenal target Nico Williams from Athletic Club this summer, according to The Athletic.
The 22-year-old has been linked with a move to the Emirates after impressing for Athletic last season and with Spain at Euro 2024. Barca had been among the others tipped to sign him, but it's looking like they are now out of the running.
Kieran King
Merino hint
Real Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay has hinted that the club may be forced to sell Mikel Merino as the midfielder continues to be linked with a move to Arsenal.
"I don’t know. We are aware that Merino has offers, and we know them," Apperibay told Mundo Deportivo. "The conversation with him and those around him has been very sincere and hopefully his decision is to stay. He already knows that we want him to stay.
"He has had a renewal offer for some time. And if not, we will try to negotiate the best way out for Real. What we think is that the club has to look to the future. Try to be stronger every year or every day.
"You don’t have to hide behind a contract when a player tells you that he wants to take advantage of an opportunity. Daily work makes us stronger."
Read the full story here.
Kieran King
Nketiah urged to leave
Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang has told former Arsenal teammate Eddie Nketiah to join Marseille this summer.
As translated into English, a fan asked Aubameyang on X, formerly known as Twitter, to tell Nketiah to come to Marseille. The Gabon international responded: "Already done."
Déjà fait
— AUBA (@Auba) July 31, 2024
Kieran King
Lewis-Skelly position change
According to the Daily Mail, Mikel Arteta has been moulding Myles Lewis-Skelly into an inverted left-back’ ahead of the start of the new season.
Lewis-Kelly, who is a defensive midfielder by trade, has been impressive in the academy over the past couple of years.
And it's claimed that if players in Arsenal’s backline suffer injuries in the 2024/25 season, 'Lewis-Skelly will be in contention for a spot, either on the bench or in the starting XI.'
Kieran King
Merino latest
According to Fabrizio Romano, Atletico Madrid and Barcelona think that Mikel Merino is going to chose Arsenal and join the Gunners this summer.
Merino has been linked with a move to the Emirates after impressing for Spain at Euro 2024 and he has been tipped to make the switch to north London and bolster Arsenal's midfield.
Kieran Horn
Nico Williams transfer decision made
It would have been a dream transfer if Arsenal signed Nico Williams and it looks as though it will remain exactly that.
Despite links to Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, along with a number of Premier League teams, Williams has decided to stay at Athletic Bilbao for the 2024/25 season, according to the Athletic.
Kieran Horn
Latest Ramsdale transfer odds
Aaron Ramsdale is open to leaving Arsenal this summer in search of more regular minutes.
The 26-year-old lost his spot in the starting XI to David Raya last September, following his loan arrival from Brentford, with the Spain international now joining on a permanent deal.
As such, Ramsdale could have a departure sanctioned with Newcastle still as the favourites for his signature, as per bet365.
Aaron Ramsdale:
Newcastle 9/4
Arsenal 3/1
Southampton 4/1
Nottm Forest 9/1
Wolves 10/1
Kieran Horn
Arteta told perfect Arsenal transfer
Mikel Arteta has been told by Jermaine Pennant he must sign Alexander Isak from Newcastle United in order to guide Arsenal to the Premier League title.
“Alexander Isak would be a perfect signing for Arsenal or Liverpool," he told Coin Poker. "He’s got that stature of a big 9, which is great to have. He can finish, which we’ve seen at Newcastle. I think he would be an amazing signing and would take Liverpool or Arsenal to the next step by winning the Premier League.”
Kieran Horn
Arsenal receive Neto transfer update
Arsenal have been handed a Pedro Neto transfer update by Wolves boss Gary O'Neil.
"I know how good he is, and I know how well he would do at a big club," He told the E&S podcast. "Obviously I want our team here to be unbelievably successful. So I’m hoping that he stays.
“I think so (there’s a chance he stays). There’s nothing going on at this moment from anybody. He’s in a good spot, I’ve spoke to him about how we’re going to play and how it suits him and what a big part he’ll play in it.
"But of course, we’re all grown-ups while you’re having them conversations. If a massive bid comes from a top club then no one is going to stand in Pedro’s way.
“I’m confident that he will be here. Because we haven’t had anything really, that makes the club think that he won’t be. But of course, a lot of business can be done late.”
Kieran Horn
Arsenal favourites for Gyokeres
Arsenal are in with a real chance of signing Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP in the summer transfer window.
The Sweden international, following on from a 43-goal season, has been linked with a swift return to England after leaving Coventry City for the Portuguese capital just 12 months ago. And according to bet365, the Emirates Stadium is his most likely destination.
Viktor Gyokeres transfer odds:
Arsenal 7/4
Sporting 2/1
Chelsea 6/1
PSG 7/1
Atletico Madrid 7/1
Kieran Horn
Osimhen next club odds
Arsenal have been listed as one of the clubs that could sign Victor Osimhen from Napoli this summer.
London rivals Chelsea are undoubtedly in pole position for his signature having entered into loan talks with Napoli after negotiations with Paris Saint-Germain stalled.
Despite that the French champions are still in with a chance of signing Osimhen with Betfair providing the latest odds surrounding his potential next club.
Betfair - Victor Osimhen to sign for before September 1, 2024
- Chelsea 2/5
- PSG 3/1
- Any Saudi Pro League Team 9/2
- Arsenal 11/1
Kieran Horn
Calafiori progress spotted in new Arsenal training pictures
Arsenal are in the midst of preparing for another pre-season friendly with their latest clash coming against Liverpool. The Gunners have already taken on Bournemouth and Manchester United as part of their United States tour with a victory over the latter coming after a draw against the Cherries.
For the upcoming fixture against Arne Slot's side, Mikel Arteta will have at least two squad changes with Riccardo Calafiori's move from Bologna finally confirmed. The Italy international has joined up with the Arsenal squad and taken part in his first training session.
With that being said, click here to see what football.london spotted from latest Arsenal training images in Philadelphia.
Kieran Horn
Arsenal transfer target confirms departure
Adrien Rabiot has confirmed his departure from Juventus with the France international now on the search for a new club.
On Instagram, he wrote: "After 5 seasons at Juventus, 5 years in Turin, I want to say goodbye and thank you.
"All of you who have been there for me. The club and all its staff. And you fans, always close and very affectionate ! Thanks for everything @juventus. Goodbye and good luck [white and black heart emoji]."
Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool have all been linked to Rabiot, who has played at the elite level for both club and country in recent years.
Kieran Horn
Nketiah transfer update
Arsenal star Eddie Nketiah has already given the green light over a move to Marseille, as per transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
The French club are currently working on signing the 25-year-old with their latest bid near £16.8million (€20m) and while it is some way off Arsenal's lofty asking price, it is structured far better than their opening offer.
With that in mind, negotiations are expected to continue as the two clubs attempt to find agree a package that benefits both parties.
Kieran Horn
Smith Rowe announcement imminent
Emile Smith Rowe has completed his Fulham medical ahead of a £35million transfer from Arsenal being officially confirmed.
The Hale End graduate departs the club after more than a decade of service with the Gunners receiving a sizeable fee for his departure.
With medical tests completed, it is likely that the Cottagers are preparing an announcement video for their club-record signing with that expected to be posted this week.
Kieran Horn
Next Arsenal transfer 'decided'
Following the arrival of Riccardo Calafiori, Arsenal will undoubtedly be out looking for their next summer transfer.
With strengthening in midfield a priority, football.london have taken a look at the potential additions the Gunners could make this summer.
Click here to read the full story
Kieran Horn
Victor Osimhen boost
Arsenal may have been given a Victor Osimhen transfer boost following a brutal admission regarding Chelsea being in talks to sign the Napoli striker on loan.
The two clubs have been in talks for the last few weeks over the permanent transfer of Romelu Lukaku, though it now seems there is a new element in their negotiations. However, Osimhen's agent, Roberto Calenda, has rubbished those claims.
He tweeted: "I read about ‘fantasy exchanges’ with Victor… as if he was a package to be delivered quickly. This package is the top scorer of the third Scudetto in the history of Napoli. Respect and stop fake news!"
Kieran Horn
Merino transfer latest
Arsenal look to be in pole position to sign Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad.
The Gunners have been linked to the midfielder over the last few weeks with Mikel Arteta an admirer of his talents.
Atletico Madrid have also shown an interest in the 28-year-old, but their pursuit of Chelsea's Conor Gallagher will likely see links to Merino decrease with Arsenal later given an update by Sociedad's club president Jokin Aperribay.
On Monday, he said: “He has an offer to renew, for over a year, and if he has not renewed yet it is because he does not want to mislead the La Real fans, which speaks well of him.
"I’d like him not to leave, we all would but, if he tells us he accepts another offer on the table, and wants us to negotiate, we will. We know he has some, and what they are. But we still hope Mikel will stay at La Real, but if not we’ll negotiate the best outcome for La Real.”
Kieran Horn
Arsenal receive Nketiah bid
Marseille have submitted a new offer to Arsenal in their attempts to sign Eddide Nketiah, as per the Athletic.
The latest proposal from the French club is near £16.8million (€20m) with it much closer to the formula Arsenal want, in comparison to their opening offer.
Though it is an improvement, Arsenal rejecting the new bid is likely but talks are expected to continue in order to find a solution.
Kieran Horn
Good morning
Hello Arsenal fans, my name is Kieran Horn and welcome back to football.london's Gunners transfer live blog!
It was another busy day yesterday for Mikel Arteta and Edu with an exit for Emile Smith Rowe being finalised as the club continued to bed in new signing Riccardo Calafiori.
Mikel Merino could soon join Calafiori in sealing a move to Arsenal with a major decision elsewhere looking likely to impact his future. Elsewhere, in terms of other outgoings, Eddie Nketiah could also be leaving this summer with Marseille's latest bid closer to what Arsenal would want to sanction his exit.
For the latest updates on all of the above, stay with us throughout for regular updates!
Bruna Reis
Martin Odegaard Arsenal shirt number request can finally be granted after £35m transfer agreed
Emile Smith Rowe is closing in on his Arsenal exit after a fee of up to £35million was agreed between the Gunners and Fulham, football.london understands, inclusive of add-ons. Having come through the club’s academy this is certainly an emotional departure and many have been torn on the decision to allow him to leave.
That said, it is most likely the best outcome for the player and the club who are getting a very decent fee. When you consider a player like Conor Gallagher, who stood out for Chelsea last season and captained the side, is in discussions over a move to Atletico Madrid for a similar fee it makes plenty of sense – at least it does for the Gunners.
Read more here.
Bruna Reis
Chido Obi-Martin latest
The 16-year-old is set to join Manchester United after leaving Arsenal this week.
Bruna Reis
Calafiori hint, Nketiah chance - Three things spotted in Arsenal training ahead of Liverpool
Arsenal are in the midst of preparing for another pre-season friendly with their latest clash coming against Liverpool. The Gunners have already taken on Bournemouth and Manchester United as part of their United States tour with a victory over the latter coming after a draw against the Cherries.
For the upcoming fixture against Arne Slot's side, Mikel Arteta will have at least two squad changes with Riccardo Calafiori's move from Bologna finally confirmed. The Italy international has joined up with the Arsenal squad and taken part in his first training session.
Read more here.
Bruna Reis
Chido Obi-Martin transfer decision revealed
According to Sky Sports, the youngster's departure from Arsenal is not a financially motivated decision.
It is said that contract was agreed but there was doubts over his pathway into the first team and Arsenal's project. Obi-Martin reportedly feels his career is best served at a new club.
Talks with Manchester United are ongoing but there is also strong interest from clubs in Germany.
Bruna Reis
Mikel Arteta reveals Calafiori debut plan
The Arsenal boss will not rush Calafiori into making his Arsenal debut when they face Liverpool in a friendly this week.
The Italian defender, who completed the move to Arsenal for £42m, joined his new teammates on Monday. After being involved with the squad on Tuesday, Arsenal will decide whether he will play a role in the friendly against the Reds.
"He had a long flight yesterday, and a medical over the past 24 hours," Mikel Arteta said.
Bruna Reis
Dani Olmo latest
Barcelona are pushing to sign the Olmo amid links to Arsenal.
Bruna Reis
Emile Smith Rowe update
Smith Rowe is closing in on a move to Fulham.
Bruna Reis
Personal terms agreed
According to Sports Zone, Arsenal have agreed personal terms with Mikel Merino.
The report states a four-year deal is a possibility but Arsenal must now negotiate a fee with Real Sociedad. Arsenal are keen to sign the midfielder with Mikel Arteta understood to be a huge fan of him.
The next days could be decisive.
