Arsenal set to make late transfer dash for forward after sealing Mikel Merino in third signing of the summer

ARSENAL are hoping to launch a late surge for a forward this week after a busy week in the transfer window.

The Gunners are expected to announce the £32.6million arrival of Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino in the coming days after the Spaniard, 28, underwent a medical in London.

2020 Soccrates Images B.V.

Arsenal have all-but sealed the signing of Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad[/caption]

Reuters

Mikel Arteta is now eyeing a late transfer move for a forward before the window closes[/caption]

Merino has already signed his four-year deal with the club ahead of the deal being announced, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Hale End academy striker Eddie Nketiah, 25, meanwhile is close to securing a £30m exit to Crystal Palace having been given permission to undergo a medical at Selhurst Park.

Boss Mikel Arteta has already admitted the club is a “bit short” in attacking areas, especially with Gabriel Jesus needing an MRI scan on an injured groin that saw him miss the 2-0 win away at Aston Villa on Saturday.

But Arsenal are keen to get several other deals – Merino and Nketiah – over the line before stepping up attempts to recruit up front, ideally a versatile winger.

Links to Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams have been reported but a move for him is unlikely given the finances of the deal – especially in terms of wages.

Arsenal are looking at numerous options having also received £27m up front from Fulham for Emile Smith Rowe already this window.

With Merino confirmed, Arsenal’s total summer spending will exceed £100m having also spent £27m on keeper David Raya and £42m on defender Riccardo Calafiori.

He could make his debut as early as this weekend in his new club’s final match before the international break.

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The Gunners will be looking to make it three wins from three in the Premier League at home to Brighton, who also have a 100 per cent record.

Meanwhile, several first-team players have left the Emirates Stadium.

Fabio Vieira is the latest departure to follow Smith Rowe out the club after sealing a loan return to Porto.

However, the move does not include a buy option for the midfielder.

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