Arsenal Transfer News Roundup: Gunners eyeing Bayern Munich ace, club have Mikel Merino worry, and more - August 12, 2024
Arsenal finished second behind Manchester City last season in the Premier League. Mikel Arteta is now looking to rope in the right reinforcements to help him go all the way in the 2024/25 season.
Meanwhile, the Gunners have entered the race to sign a Bayern Munich forward. Elsewhere, the north London side are worried that Mikel Merino could end up staying at Real Sociedad.
On that note, let's look at the major Arsenal transfer news from August 12, 2024.
Arsenal eyeing Kingsley Coman
Arsenal have set their sights on Kingsley Coman, according to Football Insider. The Gunners are in the market for attacking reinforcements this summer, after narrowly missing out on the Premier League last season.
Mikel Arteta's team have gone from strength to strength in recent years, and the Spanish manager now wants to add more experience to his roster. Coman is among the attacking players currently being monitored by the north London side.
The Frenchman has been a first team regular over the years for Bayern Munich, but is no longer indispensable at the Allianz Arena. Last season, the 28-year-old registered five goals and three assists from 27 games across competitions, missing quite a few games with injuries.
Bavarians are ready to move him on this year and are even open to a loan move with an option or obligation to buy. Coman is willing to join Arsenal if they can promise him regular game time. Recent reports have suggested that Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) - his former club - also have their eyes on the Frenchman. The 28-year-old's contract at the Allianz Arena runs until 2027.
Gunners have Mikel Merino worry
Arsenal are increasingly worried about missing out on Mikel Merino this summer, according to Caught Offside. The Spanish midfielder is a priority target for Mikel Arteta this year and has already agreed personal terms ahead of a move.
However, the Gunners are yet to agree to a fee for the 28-year-old, whose contract with Real Sociedad runs out in 2025. The La Liga giants are apparently willing to let Merino leave this summer, but Liverpool's interest in Martin Zubimendi could force a change in plans.
The Merseyside club are reportedly ready to trigger the 25-year-old's release clause and are now trying to convince the player to agree to a move. Zubimendi has previously been reluctant to leave the country, but if the Reds manage to turn his head, it could spell trouble for the north London side.
Sociedad will be unwilling to lose two stalwarts of their midfield in the same window, which could be a big blow for Arsenal. The Gunners have already missed out on multiple midfield targets this year. Douglas Luiz has moved to Juventus, while Amadou Onana has opted to join Aston Villa.
The situation has forced Arsenal to step up their efforts to secure Merino. The north London side are now preparing an improved offer for the Spaniard before Liverpool can agree a deal for Zubimendi.
Wolverhampton Wanderers eyeing Aaron Ramsdale
Wolverhampton Wanderers are planning a swap deal for Aaron Ramsdale this summer, according to Football Insider. The English goalkeeper lost his place in Arsenal's starting XI last season following the arrival of David Raya on loan from Brentford.
The Spaniard was outstanding between the sticks, prompting the Gunners to tie him down to a permanent deal this summer. Ramsdale, as such, is looking to leave in search of regular football this summer.
The north London side would prefer for him to stay, but are open to an exit. Wolves are offering the 26-year-old an escape route from the Emirates. The Midlands club are now ready to offer Daniel Bentley in exchange for Ramsdale.
Arsenal were previously interested in the 31-year-old as a replacement for his countryman and could be open to such an arrangement. Ramsdale has been identified as a successor for Jose Sa at the Molineux, with the Portuguese expected to leave this year.