Ramsdale update
Arsenal hope to sign at least one goalkeeper before the transfer window closes.
They would like a replacement for Aaron Ramsdale, ideally Espanyol’s Joan Garcia, as well as an experienced homegrown goalkeeper to be third choice.
Arsenal and Wolves remain in talks over goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.
It is expected that the England keeper will cost around £20m, which could include a loan first due to Wolves’ financial struggles.
Arsenal dash for forward
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.
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.
Former Arsenal keeper retires
Former Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny has announced his retirement from professional football.
The 34-year-old broke the news to fans with an emotional statement on Instagram.
It read: “I left Warsaw, my hometown in June of 2006 to join Arsenal with one dream – to make a living out of football. Little did I know it would be the start of a journey of a lifetime.
“Little did I know that I would get to play for the biggest clubs in the world and represent my country 84 times. Little did I know that not only would I make a living out of the game but the game would become my whole life.
“I didn’t just realise my dreams, I’ve arrived where my imagination wouldn’t even dare to take me. I played the game at the highest level with the best players in history without ever feeling inferior.
“I’ve made friends for life, created unforgettable memories and met people who have made an incredible impact on my life. Everything that I have and everything that I am I owe to the beautiful game of football…”
