Arsenal could launch ‘surprise’ late move for £50m forward as Mikel Arteta pushes for third signing

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Arsenal could now be looking to strike a late deal in the remaining days of the summer transfer window for one of their top targets.

The north London side have not been particularly busy this summer with Mikel Arteta being very selective as to which players Arsenal have targeted.

None of last season’s top three sides have done much in the market with Arne Slot still yet to see his first Liverpool signing confirmed.

However, Arsenal have been able to land one of their top targets in Riccardo Calafiori and their second signing of the summer looks set to be announced.

A deal for Mikel Merino looks completed after he passed his Arsenal medical with the Gunners now able to focus on adding to their frontline.

With a deal for the Spaniard looking wrapped up, there is one of his compatriots who could also be eyed as an audacious late move from Arsenal.

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Arsenal could make ‘surprise’ late move for £50m forward

With Gabriel Jesus injured and Eddie Nketiah looking set to leave Arsenal, the Gunners could really do with some attacking additions.

Victor Osimhen remains a possibility for Arsenal who are interested in the Nigeria international whose future at Napoli is in doubt.

But there is also spaces in the squad for potential new wingers as Arsenal look to bolster their options ahead of what is going to be a busy campaign.

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According to Charles Watts, Arsenal cannot be ruled out of the running for Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams ahead of Friday’s deadline.

“Nico Williams is a winger we know they like, but that would be a tough deal to get done this late in the window,” Watts said.

“Yes, he has a release clause which makes it impossible to rule out, but it’s far from clear whether he would even want the move should that clause be activated.

“So if Arsenal are to do something, it looks like being one of those surprise signings that potentially catches us a bit off guard.

“Arteta did hint that something could still happen after the game against Villa and I’m sure he will be pushing for more because he will want as strong a squad as possible ahead of such a demanding season.”

Nico Williams would cost Arsenal around £50m

Bilbao’s manager Ernesto Valverde has refused to rule out a potential exit for Williams before the end of play on Friday.

This comes amid a £50m valuation on Williams which may not actually be that much considering the potential the Spain international has.

Williams was able to help guide Spain to their European Championship triumph this summer and even netted a goal against England.

This is a player who Arsenal have not made an official approach for Ademola Lookman over because they were so interested in the Spain winger.

It would certainly come as a surprise to many this summer to see Williams make a late departure from La Liga, but nothing can be ruled out.