Arsenal now eyeing ‘world-class’ £20m player with Riccardo Calafiori deal now close

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Arsenal are close to completing a deal to sign Riccardo Calafiori but look like wasting little time in getting to work on further signings.

After weeks of haggling and differing reports, this weekend has seen progress on Calafiori.

Calafiori is now just a few steps away from being an Arsenal player and it looks like the Gunners have finally got things over the line.

However, there is no rest for Edu and Mikel Arteta, who could now make a move to strengthen the midfield as well.

In terms of those midfield targets, Real Sociedad duo Mikel Merino and Martin Zubimendi are both thought to be on Arsenal’s shopping list.

And according to journalist Ben Jacobs, there is a real chance Arsenal do make a move for Merino given his contract situation.

Arsenal will consider Mikel Merino move to strengthen the midfield

Speaking to GiveMeSport about the potential next steps for Arsenal, Jacobs has confirmed that Merino is a player of serious interest.

“Arsenal are considering Mikel Merino, but at this stage there is no club-to-club contact. Merino will be available at value because he’s into the final year of his Real Sociedad contract,” Jacobs said.

“Arsenal are not afraid to buy a bit older or add names who perhaps won’t stay for longer than two-three seasons.

“Jorginho is one example of this, and has proven to be a smart signing.”

Interestingly, Merino has suggested he’d be open to a move away from Sociedad this summer, and at a potential knockdown price of just £20m, Arsenal could make their move.

Regarded as a ‘world-class’ operator by Kieran Tierney, Merino was part of the Spain squad this summer that won the Euros.

With Arsenal liking the idea of moving Declan Rice that bit further forward, the experienced Spaniard would very much bring that option to life.