Journalist provides update on Arsenal's interest in exit-linked Manchester City superstar

According to journalist Alex Crook, Arsenal's interest in Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez has receded. The Gunners were looking to sign the Argentinian forward earlier in the window but haven't actively pursued the player since.

Crook said on talkSPORT (via TBR):

“I think it’s pretty clear he’s (Alvarez) hankering for a move even though he started quite a few games last season.”

"There was interest I’m told from Arsenal earlier in the window but I’m told they haven’t gone back to revisit that yet."

“But the interest is growing again from over in Spain, again it’s Atletico Madrid. Can they meet City’s £70m price tag? I do wonder. But I think it’s going to be one that rumbles on.”

Reports suggest that Alvarez is keen on leaving Manchester City in the hopes of getting more regular time. Currently, the 24-year-old is behind Erling Haaland in the pecking order. He made 54 appearances for the Cityzens last season, bagging an impressive 19 goals and 13 assists, but wasn't always used as a striker as Pep Guardiola moved his position around.

Arsenal's desire to add a striker in this window has been well-documented. Mikel Arteta's side have reportedly pursued Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres, but neither move seems likely to happen. This comes after unsatisfactory performances from Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah in the 2023-24 campaign as they combined for just nine league goals.

However, the deal for Alvarez seems to be off for now. Chelsea were also reportedly interested at one point, but La Liga side Atletico Madrid remain the favorites for his signature.

Arsenal close to completing deal for La Liga midfielder: Reports

Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino is close to joining Arsenal. According to Fabrizio Romano, the Gunners have progressed well in their talks with the La Liga side for the 28-year-old.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano said (via TBR):

“Arsenal are now expected to close in the next days the agreement with Real Sociedad. It’s already closed, because the verbal exchange has already started then it’s going to be important to discuss payment structure, payment terms.”

“So Arsenal are getting there for Mikel Merino. We can’t say here we go yet. But we can say that Arsenal are advancing well for Mikel Merino.”

Merino had an impressive campaign for Sociedad, bagging eight goals and five assists in 45 games. The midfielder also featured in Spain's Euro 2024 title winning squad.

The Spaniard will join a talented Arsenal midfield that already consists of the likes of Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, and Thomas Partey. His play style could allow Arteta to deploy Rice in a more advanced role, offering the Gunners more dynamism going forward.