Arsenal Transfer News Roundup: Gunners unlikely to sign Viktor Gyokeres; La Liga ace eager for Emirates move, and more - August 1, 2024
Arsenal are working to improve their squad over the summer as they look to fight for the big trophies next season. Manager Mikel Arteta has secured goalkeeper David Raya on a permanent deal this summer and also welcomed defender Riccardo Calafiori to his squad.
Meanwhile, the Gunners are unlikely to complete a move for Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres this year. Elsewhere, Real Sociedad midfielder is eager to join the north London side.
On that note, here's a look at the key Arsenal transfer stories as on August 1, 2024:
Arsenal unlikely to sign Viktor Gyokeres, says Fabrizio Romano
Arsenal are unlikely to move for Viktor Gyokeres this summer, according to acclaimed transfer guru Fabrizio Romano. The Gunners are looking for attacking reinforcements after faltering in the Premier League title race last season.
Arteta was interested in Benjamin Sesko earlier this summer, but the Slovenian opted to stay at RB Leipzig. The situation has forced Arteta to pursue alternate targets, and Gyokeres has apparently popped up on his radar.
The Swedish striker was on fire for Sporting last season, scoring 43 goals and setting up 15 more in 50 games across competitions. Gyokeres has earned admirers at multiple clubs across the continent and could be an upgrade on Gabriel Jesus.
Howver, on Men in Blazers, Romano said that the north London side are looking for cheaper options in the market.
“Then if there are more outgoings there are some possibilities that Arsenal could add another offensive player. I don’t think it will be an expensive player like Viktor Gyokeres.
"I think this is too expensive, but maybe a new winger, a different type of player who can provide fresh energy behind Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka," said Arteta.
Gyokeres reportedly has a €100 million release clause in his contract.
Mikel Merino eager for Emirates move, says Fabrizio Romano
Mikel Merino is prioritizing a move to the Emirates this summer, according to Fabrizio Romano. The Spanish midfielder has entered the final year of his contract with Real Sociedad but hasn't signed a new deal yet.
Arteta has reportedly identified the 28-year-old as an ideal partner for Declan Rice in the middle of the park. Merino also has admirers at Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, and his contract situation makes him a lucrative option for his suitors.
On his YouTube channel, though, Romano said that the Spaniard has eyes only for the Gunners this summer.
"Mikel Merino is giving total priority to Arsenal. I told you for days, for weeks, that Mikel Merino is on the list at Arsenal, and he is very high on the list at the moment.
"There is still no direct contact with Real Sociedad, so there is no concrete negotiation in terms of an official bid - but it could happen soon, because Arsenal are having a very positive exchange on the player's side," said Romano.
He continued:
"Merino is tempted by the Premier League, tempted by Arsenal and very tempted by Mikel Arteta, who is considered the perfect coaching for him by people close to the player.
"Arsenal and Merino remains a concrete topic, but we are still waiting for concrete contacts from club to club."
Recent reports have suggested that the 28-year-old could be available for €30 million this summer.
Mikel Arteta on track to sign new contract
Mikel Arteta is on course to commit his future at the Emirates, according to GIVEMESPORT. The manager has entered the final year of his contract at the Emirates, adding to speculation regarding his future.
Barcelona were briefly interested in Arteta this summer following Xavi's exit. However, they eventually appointed Hansi Flick as their new manager. Meanwhile, Arteta remains committed with the Gunners, who have gone from strength to strength under his tutelage.
The Spaniard has transformed his team into title contenders and narrowly missed out on the Premier League last season. He's now gearing up to go all the way in the upcoming campaign.
The club remain relaxed about his contract situation, and the 42-year-old has already agreed basic terms for a new deal. Arteta pockets £9 million per year but is in line for a payhike. Renewal talks have progressed well, and there are no concerns regarding the entire process.