3 positions Arsenal could target after Mikel Merino signing

After what has felt like weeks upon end, a deal for Mikel Merino is finally through. For a total package worth in the region of £32m, Mikel finally unites with Mikel.

Despite a valuation resonant of that of most squad players at the club, the Spaniard could well feature plenty atime in the first-team. Merino seems like the ideal Arteta-kind of player - tall, technical, and, obviously, duels. Lots of them. He's like the small, missing piece to the puzzle, if you will.

Speaking of missing pieces, Arsenal arguably still have a fair few. Arteta and co could address some of these before the trading window slams shut, and his words in a recent press conference implied that he himself was open to more signings.

Here's three areas of the squad that could use some bolstering, as well as potential reinforcements for each.

1. Goalkeeper

Let's just quickly get this one out the way.

Many will scoff at the prospect of yet another goalkeeper signing. Arteta has introduced six keepers in four and a half seasons at the club, and he's on the verge of a seventh. Is this what the recruitment team sees as priority?

A valid questions, but a goalkeeper should actually be one of the highest priorities above all in the event that Aaron Ramsdale leaves, which is now increasingly likely as Wolves continue to loom. After all, it should go without saying that the drop-off from David Raya to an academy prospect like Tommy Setford is simply not worth banking.

A pretty straightforward transaction here - Ramsdale out, someone else in.

Potential signings

As per Fabrizio Romano, it seems Espanyol's Joan Garcia is the earmarked replacement, and personal terms have already been agreed. The 23-year-old does seem inexperienced, with just 30 senior outings, and 21 of them in the Spanish second division.

Though perhaps, the Arsenal goalkeeping department may have noticed something ... to fans. Moreover, the player's lower wages in addition to what could be a lower transfer fee too, could denote useful financial profit over Aaron Ramsdale's departure.

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