BREAKING NEWS LIVE : Arsenal get Riccardo Calafiori transfer timeline as Mikel Arteta wants Thomas Partey replacement

Our opinion on the latest Arsenal news and transfer gossip, including updates on Mikel Merino, Riccardo Calafiori and Ollie Watkins

Riccardo Calafiori of Italy looks on prior to the UEFA EURO 2024 round of 16 match between Switzerland and Italy at Olympiastadion on

Mikel Arteta will be eager to strengthen his Arsenal squad this summer. The Gunners continue to be linked with some big names, like Riccardo Calafiori and Mikel Merino but, for now, it’s unclear whether or not Edu will splash the cash.

Last year, Arsenal’s sporting director spent over £200m on Declan Rice, Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber. After heavily investing in two midfielders and a defender, Arteta may look to finally sign a new forward – especially with Eddie Nketiah and Reiss Nelson facing uncertain futures.

Nico Williams has been mooted as a potential target, but the finances involving a potential deal for the Athletic Bilbao winger could prove to be a stumbling block. So, with that being said, football.london has rounded up the latest Arsenal news and transfer gossip on

Arsenal are interested in signing Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad this summer, football.london understands. The 28-year-old, who fired Spain to Euro 2024 glory over the summer, has suddenly emerged as a target for the Gunners as Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his midfield.

Martin Zubimendi was once heavily linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium, but Arsenal have now set their sights on Merino. The playmaker featured 32 times for Real Sociedad in La Liga last season, scoring five goals and providing three assists.

Playing a key role in Imanol Alguacil’s side, he helped the Spanish club finish sixth and secure Europa League qualification. His impressive performances have courted the north Londoners’ interest, while Thomas Partey’s future remains unclear.

UEAFNEWS.COM says: “Mikel Merino would be an excellent signing for Arsenal. Bringing experience, composure and creativity to Mikel Arteta’s lineup, the Gunners would certainly have a midfield capable of dismantling Manchester City in the Premier League title race.”

Calafiori to Arsenal timeline explained

Gianluca Di Marzio has explained what Arsenal haven’t wrapped up a deal to sign Riccardo Calafiori yet. Speaking to goal.pl, the journalist said: “At this moment, Arsenal’s priority is to find an agreement with Bologna for Riccardo Calafiori. He’s their top target and they are pushing a lot.

“The player wants Arsenal and he decided to join them two or three weeks back. He didn’t listen to offers from Chelsea, PSG, Bayer Leverkusen because he’s really focused on Arsenal and Arsenal is focused on him.

“At this moment there’s no deal yet with Bologna because the price of Calafiori has changed a lot. Before EURO 2024 he had a price of €30-35m. After his performances for Italy, Bologna are asking for €50m and Arsenal feel that’s too much.

“Arsenal are willing to spend €1-2m more but not €10m more. So at this moment, the pace of the deal is on standby but with the will to arrive at an agreement in the next few days.”