The latest Arsenal transfer updates as the Premier League club chase Mikel Merino, receive interest in Eddie Nketiah, reject an offer for Aaron Ramsdale, and complete two deals.
Arsenal learn Merino transfer fee
Real Sociedad want €35 million (£29.9m) for Mikel Merino, who has been heavily linked with the Gunners this past month, according to the Independent.
Arsenal, however, want to pay ‘closer’ to €25m (£21.3m), as the Spanish international is in the final year of his contract in San Sebastian and could be available on a free transfer next year.
It’s claimed that Merino wants to make the move happen, but La Real seem determined to dig their heels in, which could make for elongated negotiations that go right to the wire. The transfer window closes on 30 August.
The price is not the only stumbling block to getting a deal agreed, as there is disagreement over the payment structure. Arsenal want to spread the fee over three-year instalments, while Real Sociedad would prefer more money up front.
The Basque club have already proved difficult to deal with for Premier League clubs this summer, having blocked Liverpool’s move for Martin Zubimendi.
Nketiah attracts Premier League interest
“A number of Premier League clubs are exploring the conditions of a deal” for Eddie Nketiah, according to Sky Sports News.
The striker looked set to join Marseille on a five-year contract last week, but the €30m (£25.6m) deal broke down after the French club reportedly turned their attentions to another transfer target.
Bournemouth have been cited as an interested party as they look to replace Dominic Solanke, who joined Spurs this past weekend.
Nketiah has not started for Arsenal in a competitive game since last December and is seeking regular first-team football to reinvigorate his career. His club’s valuation may make a deal difficult to pull off for potential suitors, which reportedly includes Crystal Palace, Leicester City and Wolves.
Ramsdale approach rejected
Arsenal have turned down an approach from Ajax to sign goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale on an initial loan, according to The Athletic.
The Gunners would rather sell the England international permanently than send him out for a season, but the Dutch side apparently retain “optimism” about striking a deal. Joan Garcia of Espanyol is seen as a possible replacement.
Sky Sports News report that Ajax are “now discussing internally their next steps”, meaning Ramsdale could yet end up in Amsterdam before the transfer window closes.
The two clubs have already conducted business on one goalkeeper this summer, with Tommy Setford joining the Gunners in July for around €1m.
Arsenal complete two deals
Goalkeeper Karl Hein has joined La Liga side Real Valladolid on a season-long loan deal. The 22-year-old Estonia international has never made a senior appearance in his six years at the club.
Arsenal Women have signed Sweden forward Rosa Kafaji from BK Hacken. The 21-year-old has signed a “long-term” contract with the Gunners.
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