Mikel Merino setback could force Arsenal into deadline day move

Mikel Merino is set to miss a considerable period of action for Arsenal after sustaining a bone injury in his right foot.

The Spaniard picked up an issue during his side's 3-2 defeat to Manchester United last week and the Gunners have now revealed that subsequent assessments and specialist reviews have confirmed it is related to his bone.

This setback comes at a crucial point for Mikel Arteta's side and reports have suggested they could consider a late move for a midfielder on deadline day.

Mikel Merino setback could force Arsenal into deadline day move

In their announcement, Arsenal confirmed Merino will undergo surgery in the coming days before beginning his recovery and rehabilitation programme. He is expected to be absent for an extended period with the hopes of returning to full training before the end of the season.

With this being a big blow to the Gunners' squad depth, The Athletic's David Ornstein revealed they are surveying the market for a potential loan as short-term cover. However, there is no guarantee a deal could materialise at this current stage.

As the transfer deadline approaches, Arteta's side would need to act quickly if they are to bring cover in for Merino. There is no denying it would be the smart move as he has proven himself to be a crucial asset to the team once again this season.

Having operated in both his natural midfield position and once again as an emergency striker, he has scored six goals and provided three assists in 33 appearances across all competitions so far this campaign.

As Ornstein stated, it doesn't look as if any potential deal will materialise currently though, with no names or a possible shortlist mentioned.

Arsenal have coped well with injuries so far this season with their brilliant squad depth proving integral to their title challenge. Merino is the latest player to suffer a setback after Bukayo Saka, Noni Madueke, Riccardo Calafiori, Jurrien Timber, Ben White, Kai Havertz, Viktor Gyökeres and Martin Ødegaard spent time on the sidelines in the first half of the campaign.

While the Gunners are exploring a possible loan move ahead of deadline day on Monday 2 February, if they don't get a deal done in time, Merino's injury could open up the opportunity for another squad member, or even an academy player, to play a more important role in the side.

Christian Nørgaard could be one candidate, having been signed as midfield reinforcements in the summer but missing out on a number of matchday squads throughout the season. He proved his worth in the Champions League win over Kairat so he could see a chance opening up now.

Regardless of whether Arsenal make a move or a current player steps up, Merino will certainly be a big miss as the uncertainty surrounding his return means his side will be without one of their crucial clutch players for an extended period.