From transfer deals to the dominating at the PFA Awards, we’re bringing you all the key updates on everything happening in and around Arsenal since the start of the week
David Raya, Gabriel Magalhaes, Martin Odegaard, William Saliba and Declan Rice at the PFA Awards
THE RAID AT THE PFA AWARDS
On Wednesday, the Gunners took centre stage at the PFA Awards night, showcasing their dominance. Goalkeeper, David Raya, was named in the PFA Team of the Year.
The Spanish international, who completed a permanent move to the club this summer after spending last season on loan, impressed by keeping 17 clean sheets and securing the Golden Glove.
His arrival at the club raised questions, as many wondered if his addition was necessary, given Aaron Ramsdale’s strong performances. However, Raya soon justified the Manager’s decision to bring him in.
The PFA Team of the Year also featured Arsenal’s central defensive duo, William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães. This wasn’t Saliba’s first appearance in the PFA Team of the Year, as he was also included in the 2022/2023 season.
Gabriel, who had a standout season, joined his defensive partner in this prestigious team. Together, they formed what many considered the best centre-back partnership in Europe, leading a defence that conceded just 29 goals in the Premier League last season.
In midfield, Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard also earned their places in the PFA Team of the Year. Both had exceptional seasons. Declan Rice, following his high-profile move to the Emirates, lived up to the lofty expectations, scoring 7 goals and providing 8 assists in the Premier League, despite his role as a defensive midfielder.
Meanwhile, Martin Ødegaard was once again a key influence in Arsenal’s style of play, earning his spot in the PFA Team of the Year for the second consecutive season.
Arsenal had the most players represented in this year’s PFA Awards, a feat they haven’t achieved since 2004. During their legendary Invincibles campaign, six Arsenal players—Thierry Henry, Sol Campbell, Robert Pires, Lauren, Ashley Cole, and Patrick Vieira—were included in the PFA Team of the Season.
This new generation of Arsenal players will undoubtedly be aiming to reach those same heights and set similar standards for themselves.
Merino saying goodbye to staff at Real Sociedad as he leaves San Sebastian to London
Merino almost at the Emirates
Merino is finally on the verge of becoming an Arsenal player. After weeks of negotiations, Arsenal has made a breakthrough with Real Sociedad.
It was reported that Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay travelled to London on Wednesday to finalise the talks, and an agreement was reached, with negotiations wrapping up yesterday.
The transfer fee is reportedly around €38 million, including add-ons, and the Spanish international is expected to travel to London today to complete the move.
Merino was one of the standout midfielders in La Liga last season. His stats reflect his dominance on the field, as he won the most duels (326) across the top five leagues last season. He also ranked in the 99th percentile for aerial duels won compared to other midfielders across the top 5 leagues.
In addition, he was in the 98th percentile for tackles in the attacking third, 94th percentile for touches in the opposition box, 89th percentile for interceptions, and 83rd percentile for overall tackles.
Merino’s physicality will be a significant asset to Arsenal’s midfield, addressing several issues they have, particularly on the left-hand side.
Reports says that Mikel Arteta played a key role in pushing for Merino’s signing, much like he did with Calafiori. Despite receiving other offers from La Liga clubs, Merino was determined to make the move to Arsenal.
Eddie Nketiah department looking more likely
Arteta on Nketiah:
I expect Eddie to train with us today and be prepared for tomorrow. Whatever happens will happen if it’s good for everybody.
Both Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace have expressed interest in signing Eddie Nketiah from Arsenal. After previous links with Marseille and Bournemouth, Arsenal now have new suitors.
Nottingham Forest, who are keen to bolster their attacking options, have made Nketiah their top target. The Gunners already rejected a £25 million bid from Forest and are reportedly seeking a fee in the range of £30-35 million for the former England international.
Reports suggest that a deal is becoming increasingly likely, with negotiations between Nottingham Forest and Arsenal progressing towards an agreement.
The 25-year-old striker agreed to personal terms with Nottingham Forest on Thursday, with all parties aiming to finalise the deal quickly.
Crystal Palace have also been keeping an eye on the situation but haven’t made any decisive moves yet. Palace recently lost Jordan Ayew and are likely looking for a replacement.
Charlie Patino is expected to complete his move to Depor La Coruna
Goodbye Charlie
In another notable transfer involving an academy player, the club reached an agreement yesterday for the sale of Charlie Patino to Depor La Coruna, a team in Spain’s second division.
Arsenal will receive £1 million for the midfielder, who had 12 months remaining on his contract. The deal also includes a 50% sell-on clause, and they have retained matching rights for any future transfer. Patino, a talented 20-year-old, scored on his debut under Mikel Arteta and was once seen as a bright prospect for the club.
His loan spell at Swansea in the Championship was promising, but he struggled during his second loan stint at Blackburn. Despite this, there remains optimism for his future as he embarks on a new chapter in his career at Deportivo. Arsenal’s belief in his potential is evident in their decision to negotiate future options through the matching rights clause.
Joan García Espanyol goalkeeper who’s tipped to replace Aaron Ramsdale incase the English international leaves before the window closes
Goalkeeper situation
The goalkeeper situation at Arsenal is one to watch closely as the transfer window draws to a close, with further business expected in this area. Wolves have expressed interest in Aaron Ramsdale, submitting a loan offer.
Bournemouth have also added him to their list as they look for a new goalkeeper. However, they have rejected the proposal, as they are not interested in a straight loan deal for the Englishman. The club reportedly prefers either a full sale or a loan with an obligation to buy.
Arsenal are seeking around £30 million for Ramsdale, aiming to recoup the amount they originally spent on him. Southampton have also shown interest in Ramsdale, but similarly, they have only proposed a loan deal.
The general sentiment at Arsenal is that Ramsdale is likely to leave the club before the transfer window shuts. In preparation for this potential departure, The Gunners have agreed on personal terms with Espanyol goalkeeper Joan García.
The Spanish shot-stopper has been identified as a replacement should Ramsdale exit the club. There are not expected to be any significant hurdles in negotiations with Espanyol, as García has a £20 million release clause in his contract.
An attacking recruitment in sight
We’ve learned that the club is keen to add a winger to strengthen Arsenal’s attacking options. The ideal candidate would be someone willing to take on a backup role while still making valuable contributions when needed.
Nico Williams, a long-time target for Arsenal, is expected to remain at Athletic Bilbao for another season. Another player reportedly on Arsenal’s radar is Brighton’s winger Simon Adringa, but a move seems unlikely given Brighton’s tendency to demand high fees for their players.
Raheem Sterling and Mikel Arteta during their time together at Manchester City
Asked in an interview earlier today about Raheem Sterling been left out of the Chelsea squad a couple of times. And if there is any temptation to give him a call. This was Arteta’s reply…
No, but I can talk about my time with Raheem. It was exceptional, we built a really strong relationship together.
Raheem Sterling is also a potential option after being informed by Chelsea that he doesn’t fit into their future plans. Arteta and Sterling have previously worked together at Manchester City, and both have spoken positively about their time there. However, it remains to be seen whether they will pursue the England international.
Big contract on it way
News emerged on Thursday that the club is set to sign a new contract with Arsenal. When asked about the new deal, Arteta said,
We are on it, and we will take care of that at the right moment… I believe we still have an unbelievable time ahead of us. I am very excited about it.
This is fantastic news for the club and its supporters, as it will secure Arteta’s future and deter any potential suitors. The upcoming contract underscores how highly he is regarded by the hierarchy at the club and demonstrates the strong faith they have in his leadership.
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