Mikel Merino and William Saliba respond to new Arsenal transfer announcement
Arsenal caught the attention of star duo Mikel Merino and William Saliba with the announcement of a brand-new summer transfer.
Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, and Noni Madueke have all joined the squad ahead of next season, but supporters will be expecting more additions over the coming weeks.
Mikel Arteta remains under major pressure at Arsenal, with fans expecting more success in domestic and European competitions, having not lifted a single title since the 2019/20 FA Cup trophy.
The main issue last term was the lack of a centre-forward, with injuries to Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus leaving Merino to adapt to a striker role from the centre of midfield.
Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres appears to be closing in on a move to Arsenal, but it is another player who has been announced at the Emirates Stadium this summer.
Arsenal announce Cristhian Mosquera’s arrival
Taking to Instagram (24 July), the official club account wrote: “Building from the back. Cristhian Mosquera is a Gunner,” earning likes from new teammates Merino and Saliba.
The 21-year-old centre-back joins the North London club after making 90 appearances for Valencia, as well as being a key figure for Spain Under-21s at Euro U21.
Mikel Arteta requires major striker signing
Football Insider verdict
The Gunners are absolutely stacked in the middle of the park, especially with moves for Norgaard and Zubimendi, and now deals need to be done all over the pitch ahead of next season.
While Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes are two of the most talented centre-backs in the Premier League, just Jakub Kiwior is not enough to cover the duo if either suffers a long-term injury again.
That is exactly why the move for Mosquera must be praised, with Andrea Berta’s arrival in North London clearly taking effect, with the youngster boasting plenty of experience.
Former West Brom boss Carlos Corberan has been fuming with the decision to let the Spanish youth international go this summer, showcasing exactly why the Gunners have secured an ideal signing.
Football Insider understands that Arsenal are well-placed for a £15m windfall from their pre-season tour of Asia, which could go towards further transfers for Arteta.
Gabriel Martinelli, Riccardo Calafiori, and Leandro Trossard are all heavily linked with exits, so with weeks remaining of the window, there is certainly plenty more business to be done.