Mikel Arteta’s £25 million transfer mistake could jeopardize Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes, according to former Arsenal player William Gallas. Gallas, a former French defender, believes Arteta erred in targeting players who may not be necessary, particularly highlighting the pursuit of Real Sociedad’s Mikel Merino.
Arsenal is actively seeking to strengthen their squad before the summer transfer window closes. Gallas argues that the team does not need to sign Merino, who is valued at £25 million as he enters the final year of his contract with Real Sociedad. The move for Merino is complicated by interest from Barcelona and Real Sociedad’s desire to retain him.
Instead, Gallas suggests Arsenal should focus on acquiring a new striker. After falling short to Manchester City in the Premier League title race for two consecutive seasons, he believes a forward capable of scoring 20 or more goals is essential.
“Arsenal doesn’t need Mikel Merino when they already have Declan Rice, who can play in that position,” Gallas said. “What they need is a top striker and possibly a winger. I maintain my prediction that Arsenal can win the league, but they still need a world-class forward who can score 20 goals in the Premier League. The issue is they haven’t secured such a striker yet, even though they were very close to the title last season.”
Gallas noted that Manchester City’s success was partly due to having Erling Haaland, a prolific goalscorer. He expressed doubts about Gabriel Jesus, currently injured and inconsistent, and questioned whether Kai Havertz, who has scored some penalties, can be relied upon.
Arsenal has made some additions to their squad this summer, including Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori and turning David Raya’s loan into a permanent transfer. The departure of Emile Smith Rowe could open the door for Merino, though Gallas remains skeptical of this move.
Arsenal will kick off the Premier League 2024-2025 season against Wolves next weekend, with two more preseason friendlies to play against Bayer Leverkusen and Lyon in the Emirates Cup before the season begins.
