Arsenal Transfer News Roundup: Gunners closing in on Italian ace, club yet to submit Mikel Merino offer, and more - July 21, 2024
Arsenal have established themselves as title contenders under Mikel Arteta in recent times. The Spaniard saw his team finish second behind Manchester City in the past two seasons and will be determined to go all the way in 2024-25.
Meanwhile, the Gunners are edging closer to securing the services of an Italian defender. Elsewhere, the north London side are yet to submit an offer for Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino.
On that note, let's look at the major Arsenal transfer news from July 21, 2024.
Arsenal closing in on Riccardo Calafiori, says Fabrizio Romano
Arsenal are close to securing the services of Riccardo Calafiori this summer, according to acclaimed journalist Fabrizio Romano. The Gunners have been hot on the heels of the 22-year-old all summer and have already agreed personal terms with the player.
However, reaching an agreement with Bologna has proven to be a challenge. The north London side initially wanted to include a player in their proposal for the Italian defender. However, this was rejected by the Serie A side, as they have to pay part of the transfer fee to FC Basel.
Talks were ongoing and a breakthrough has finally been reached. Arsenal have submitted a suitable offer and are now close to reaching an agreement with Bologna. The transfer is now expected to materialise soon.
Gunners yet to submit Mikel Merino offer, says journalist
Arsenal are yet to submit an offer for Mikel Merino this summer, according to transfer insider Ben Jacobs. Mikel Arteta is in the market for a new midfielder this summer with Thomas Partey likely to be on his way.
The Ghanaian midfielder has entered the final year of his contract at the Emirates and is unlikely to be offered a new deal. Merino's contract with Real Sociedad will also expire in 2025 and he is expected to leave the La Liga side.
The Gunners were previously interested in the Martin Zubimendi, but he has no desire to leave Sociedad. They have turned their attention to Merino instead, who could be a fine alternative.
However, speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Jacobs insisted that the north London side are yet to enter talks for the 28-year-old.
"Arsenal are considering Mikel Merino, but at this stage there is no club-to-club contact. Merino will be available at value because he's into the final year of his Real Sociedad contract,” said Jacobs.
He continued:
"Arsenal are not afraid to buy a bit older or add names who perhaps won't stay for longer than two-three seasons. Jorginho is one example of this, and has proven to be a smart signing."
Mikel Arteta is apparently willing to deviate from his recent youth-only transfer policy to target Merino this summer.
Crystal Palace want Emile Smith Rowe, says Fabrizio Romano
Crystal Palace are preparing an offer for Emile Smith Rowe, according to Fabrizio Romano. The English midfielder is a peripheral figure at the Emirates and will be allowed to leave this summer.
Smith Rowe registered just 19 appearances across competitions last season, so the chance of securing regular football will also appeal to the player. The player is apparently on Fulham's radar, and the Cottagers have already seen their opening offer rejected by the Gunners.
Despite his struggles to break into Mikel Arteta's team, the 23-year-old's stock remains high. Palace are looking to inject some creativity into their ranks this year and have identified the Englishman as a target.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano said that the Eagles are confident that the player will be open to a move.
"Smith Rowe, after the bid was rejected by Arsenal from Fulham in recent days, now a bid is also coming from Crystal Palace. Oliver Glasner wants to bring Emile Smith Rowe to Crystal Palace. He is really convinced that it'd be an important signing for their project, so the bid is coming from Palace for Smith Rowe,” said Romano.
He continued:
"They also believe the player could be keen on the move, discussions have taken place, and so Palace are expected to bid for him. Let's see what Arsenal will decide, because he remains an important player for Mikel Arteta."
Smith Rowe is under contract at the Emirates until 2026.