Arsenal: Eddie Nketiah’s future with the north Londoners has taken an unexpected turn, as Bournemouth has reportedly decided to withdraw their interest in the striker. Initially, the Gunners had been open to offloading Nketiah, with Olympique Marseille showing keen interest. Nketiah even agreed to personal terms with the French club, but the deal hit a snag when Arsenal and Marseille couldn’t agree on a transfer fee. This left the striker’s future in limbo, with no immediate resolution in sight.
After Marseille’s withdrawal, Bournemouth appeared to be the next likely destination for Nketiah. The Cherries had recently sold Dominic Solanke to Tottenham, creating a need for a new striker. Arsenal had hoped that this would pave the way for a deal, but it seems that Bournemouth’s interest in Nketiah has cooled. Instead, the south coast club opted to strengthen their attack by signing Evanilson from FC Porto in a move that could be worth up to £40 million. This acquisition has effectively shut the door on any potential move for Nketiah to Bournemouth.
Bournemouth won’t sign this Arsenal player anymore
With two potential exits now off the table, Arsenal faces the prospect of keeping a player they were ready to part ways with. The situation leaves Nketiah in a precarious position, as he must now fight for his place in a squad where he may not be considered a first-choice option.
In the grand scheme of things, this could be seen as a setback for both Nketiah and the Gunners. Arsenal might have missed the opportunity to cash in on the striker, and Nketiah might have lost a chance to secure more playing time elsewhere. If Arsenal can’t find another suitor soon, they may be forced to reassess Nketiah’s role in the team, potentially reintegrating him into their plans for the season. Whether this situation will have a positive outcome for either party remains to be seen.
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The Gunners appear to be inching closer to securing Mikel Merino’s signature, as Real Sociedad’s manager left him out of their squad for the weekend match. This move hints that the midfielder’s transfer to Arsenal could be on the horizon. Arsenal has been actively negotiating with Sociedad for Merino, whose contract with the La Liga club is in its final year. Despite this, Sociedad is holding out for a hefty fee, reportedly around £30 million, rejecting Arsenal’s initial bid.
Merino has reportedly expressed his desire to join the north Londoners, signaling his readiness for the move. His commitment to the transfer could give Arsenal the upper hand in negotiations, but Sociedad’s firm stance on the fee remains a hurdle. Arsenal seems determined to bring the Spanish midfielder to the Emirates, and Merino’s omission from Sociedad’s lineup is a strong indication that talks are advancing.
Real Sociedad’s manager, Imanol Alguacil, addressed the player’s absence by stating that discussions with other clubs are ongoing, and it was in everyone’s best interest for Merino to sit this one out. This comment adds weight to the speculation that the transfer could be finalized soon.
