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Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta | Getty Images
Arsenal are aiming to win the Premier League this season under Mikel Arteta ahead of the likes of Manchester City and Aston Villa
Arsenal could be forced into some late January transfer window action following Mikel Merino’s injury, according to journalist David Ornstein. Writing in a report by The Athletic, the Gunners are now ‘surveying the market’ for some short-term loan cover. They have until the deadline at 7pm to complete any last-gasp deals.
The London outfit remain top of the Premier League table after 24 fixtures. They won 4-0 away at Leeds United over the weekend. Mikel Arteta will be pleased to see Manchester City and Aston Villa drop points as well.
Arsenal could be active on transfer deadline day
Merino’s setback could leave Arsenal potentially short of options in the middle of the park. Therefore, landing someone on a temporary basis would be a shrewd bit of business if they were able to do something. It would ensure that they have enough competition and depth in their midfield department to deal with the workload of matches coming their way.
The Gunners will be disappointed to see Merino sidelined. He is an important member of their first-team squad and has become one of their most prized assets. As well as midfield, he can also operate as a striker as well if needed which has come in handy in the past.
Merino, 29, made the switch to the Emirates Stadium back in 2024. Prior to his transfer to England, he had spells at Osasuna, Borussia Dortmund, Newcastle United and Real Sociedad. He has since made 77 appearances for his current club in all competitions, chipping in with 15 goals, six of which have come this season.
What now for Arsenal after Mikel Merino injury?
Merino will be out for a while for Arsenal which isn’t ideal. A club statement has ready: “Mikel is expected to be out of action for an extended period, with the aim of returning to full training before the end of the season. Everyone is fully focused on supporting Mikel to ensure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible.”
Meanwhile, the player himself has posted on social media: “Time to stop now with a foot injury. Sometimes life throws this kind of challenge when less convenient. Just another opportunity to be strong, resilient and overcome it. We have the best medical team, and together we will come back stronger. Thank you for all the support, it means everything to me.”
As Ornstein has alluded to, Arsenal may be forced into some activity before the window shuts. They are back in action on Tuesday night with their Carabao Cup semi-final second leg clash against Chelsea. The Gunners won 3-2 in the first leg at Stamford Bridge as they eye a place in the final at Wembley.
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