Arsenal Transfer News Roundup: Gunners offer £52m for Swedish ace, club battling La Liga duo for Mikel Merino, and more - July 31, 2024
Arsenal are preparing to continue their impressive rise under Mikel Arteta in the upcoming campaign. The Spanish manager narrowly missed out on a Premier League triumph last season and is working to reinforce his squad over the summer.
Meanwhile, the Gunners are willing to offer a premium fee for a Swedish striker. Elsewhere, the north London side are locked in a three-way battle for Mikel Merino this summer.
On that note, let's look at the major Arsenal transfer news from July 31, 2024.
Arsenal offer £52m for Viktor Gyokeres
Arsenal are willing to offer £52m for Viktor Gyokeres this summer, according to Football Transfers. The Gunners are in the market for a new No. 9 this summer, with Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah failing to impress.
Gyokeres was outstanding for Sporting last season, scoring 43 goals and setting up 15 more from 50 games across all competitions. His efforts have earned him admirers at multiple clubs in Europe.
The north London side are also among his suitors and Mikel Arteta is keen to take him to the Emirates. Arsenal are ready to offer a sizeable fee to sign the 26-year-old this summer. The Swedish striker reportedly has a £84m release clause in his contract, but the Portuguese club could be willing to let him go for less.
Gunners battling Barcelona and Atletico Madrid for Mikel Merino, says Fabrizio Romano
Arsenal are locked in a battle with Barcelona and Atletico Madrid for Mikel Merino, according to acclaimed journalist Fabrizio Romano. The Spanish midfielder has entered the final year of his contract with Real Sociedad and hasn't agreed to a new deal yet.
The Gunners are in the market for a new midfielder this summer as they prepare for life without Thomas Partey. The Ghanaian's contract expires in 2025 and the north London side are ready to let him go.
Merino could be a fine replacement and is coming fresh off a Euro 2024 triumph with La Roja. Mikel Arteta has targeted younger players of late but is apparently willing to make an exception for the 28-year-old.
Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Romano added that Sociedad expect the player to leave this summer.
"Real Sociedad believe that Merino will not sign a new contract. They are still trying until the end to offer him a new deal, but they feel that this is going to be more than complicated. With one year left on his contract, the expectation is that if he doesn't sign a new deal shortly, he's going to be allowed to leave the club," said Romano.
He continued:
"There is interest also from Barcelona, interest also from Atletico Madrid. So these three clubs, Barca, Atletico and Arsenal, are showing an interest."
Arsenal were previously interested in Merino's teammate Martin Zubimendi, but he apparently has no desire to leave Reale Arena this summer.
Jorginho outlines role in Riccardo Calafiori arrival
Jorginho has revealed that he spoke with Riccardo Calafiori to convince him to move to Arsenal. The Italian defender joined the north London side from Bologna this summer following a lengthy pursuit.
Calafiori enjoyed an impressive 2023/24 campaign with the Serie A side, registering 37 appearances across competitions. He could be a fine fit in the left-back role under Mikel Arteta.
Speaking to the Gunners' website, Jorginho was full of praise for his countryman.
“It’s a really good signing. He’s a really good young player that will give a lot to the team. He’s a very professional guy, he is hungry to learn and humble. He has a lot to add and grow and learn and I think it’s going to be a good connection. To be fair I didn’t know him that much but when I got to know him and see him up close, it’s been great. He has great qualities,” said Jorginho.
Jorginho admitted telling Calafiori that joining Arsenal would be perfect for his development.
“I sent him a few messages while we were there at the tournament and I spoke with him and said if he wants to take himself to the next level and grow, this is the right place for him to go,” said Jorginho.
He continued:
“It’s nice to have a fratello here! We always try to help each other here and that’s what we’re going to do with him as well to make sure he feels at home straight away. It’s great that he’s here, hopefully, he enjoys it and we’ll achieve big things together.”
Calafiori's arrival could mark the end of Jakub Kiwior's time at the Emirates.