Arsenal Transfer News Roundup: Gunners eyeing Nico Williams; Ajax submit Aaron Ramsdale offer, and more - August 14, 2024
Arsenal are looking ahead to their Premier League season opener against Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Emirates on Saturday, August 17. Mikel Arteta's team finished second in the league for the second straight season, so the manager will be eyeing the top prize in the upcoming campaign.
Meanwhile, the Gunners are interested in Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams. Elsewhere, Ajax have offered to sign Gunners goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale on loan this summer.
On that note, here's a look at the key Arsenal transfer stories as on August 14, 2024:
Arsenal eyeing Nico Williams
Arsenal remain interested in Nico Williams, according to The Independent. The Spanish forward is a much sought-after man this summer following his recent exploits with club and country.
Williams was decisive for Athletic Bilbao last season, registering eight goals and 19 assists in 37 games across competitions. His efforts helped them win the Copa del Rey. The Spaniard was also key to La Roja's Euro 2024 triumph this summer.
His efforts have earned him admirers at multiple clubs across the continent. The Gunners are also on the list of his suitors, along with Barcelona. The north London side have been on the rise under Arteta recently but may need to hit a higher gear to dethrone Manchester City.
Williams' arrival could improve Arsenal, but recent reports have suggested that he's unlikely to leave San Mames this summer. Nevertheless, the Gunners are keeping a close eye on his situation as they hope to secure his services.
Ajax submit Aaron Ramsdale offer
Ajax have submitted an offer to sign Aaron Ramsdale on loan, according to reputed journalist David Ornstein. However, it was swiftly rejected by the Gunners, as they want to offload the player permanently this year.
Ramsdale is no longer the No. 1 at the Emirates following David Raya's arrival. The Spanish custodian joined the north London side last year on loan from Brentford and won the Premier League Golden Glove.
Arteta subsequently tied his countryman down to a new deal this summer. Ramsdale is no longer guaranteed first-team football in the upcoming campaign, so he's looking to leave.
Arsenal are willing to let him go but will only consider a permanent departure. Recent reports have suggested that Arteta has identified Espanyol's Joan Garcia as a possible replacement for the Englishman.
Mikel Merino waiting for Gunners, says Fabrizio Romano
Mikel Merino is waiting for a move to the Emirates this summer, according to acclaimed transfer guru Fabrizio Romano. The Spanish midfielder has emerged as a target for Arteta this summer.
Merino has been quite impressive for Real Sociedad recently and was a part of the Spain squad that emerged triumphant at Euro 2024. His contract with Soceidad expires in 2025, but he isn't expected to sign a new deal.
Arteta is looking to bolster his midfield this summer amid the uncertain future of Thomas Partey. Recent reports have suggested that Arsenal are in talks with Sociedad to facilitate a deal for Merino this year.
On The Debrief Podcast, though, Romano added that the two parties are yet to agree a deal.
“I think the point is if the two clubs can reach an agreement on the payment terms and deal structure, because even the value of the deal is already clear, it’s going to be slightly above €25m.
"So this is what Arsenal will pay for Merino – but the problem for Real Sociedad is that Merino is not extending his contract, at least as of today," said Romano.
He continued:
"His desire is to go to Arsenal, he’s only waiting for Arsenal, and so I don’t think Zubimendi future will impact Merino.
"This is the feeling also at Real Sociedad they have, because they would face the risk to lose the player on a free … and that would be a big problem for a club like Real Sociedad.”
Merino appeared 45 times across competitions last season for Sociedad, registering eight goals and five assists.