Arsenal May Trigger Player’s £26m Release Clause After Mikel Merino Deal

As the transfer window nears its end, Arsenal are intensifying their efforts to bolster their squad, with Mikel Merino and Joan Garcia emerging as key targets.

The Gunners are keen to finalise these deals before the deadline, as they seek to strengthen their team for the new season.

Mikel Merino Deal in Progress

Arsenal are making significant strides to secure Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Merino has agreed to join Arsenal, but negotiations are ongoing to settle on a transfer fee.

Arsenal’s initial bid was turned down, so the club will need to improve their offer to finalise the deal.

The addition of Merino would provide a valuable boost to Arsenal’s midfield as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Potential Move for Joan Garcia

In parallel with their pursuit of Merino, Arsenal are reportedly eyeing Joan Garcia of Espanyol. Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo suggests that Mikel Arteta has not overlooked Garcia as a potential replacement for Aaron Ramsdale.

With Ramsdale’s future at Arsenal uncertain—especially given his recent demotion to a backup role behind David Raya—Garcia could be a viable option.

Garcia, 23, has a release clause set at €25 million (£21.5 million), but this will increase to €30 million (£25.7 million) starting Thursday.

This deadline could prompt Arsenal to act swiftly to avoid the additional cost. Last season, Garcia made 21 appearances for Espanyol, securing 12 clean sheets and conceding only ten goals.

His performance, coupled with his recent success with Spain at the Olympic Games, makes him an appealing target for Arsenal.

Alternative Option: Wojciech Szczesny

While Garcia is a talented goalkeeper, some sources suggest that Arsenal should consider other options.

Wojciech Szczesny, a former Arsenal player, could be a more cost-effective choice.

The Evening Standard reports that Szczesny is on Arsenal’s shortlist, and with his recent contract termination at Juventus, he is available on a free transfer.

Szczesny, who previously made 181 appearances for Arsenal, would be familiar with the club and could integrate seamlessly into Arteta’s squad.

His free-agent status presents a financially advantageous alternative to Garcia, who would represent a significant expenditure as a backup goalkeeper.