In a stunning turn of events on transfer deadline day, Arsenal are actively exploring the market for a dramatic late signing following a major injury blow to one of Mikel Arteta’s key players, according to renowned journalist David Ornstein.
TEAMtalk understands that Mikel Merino, the Spanish midfielder who has become a cornerstone of Arteta’s midfield since his arrival, has suffered a broken bone in his foot and is set to be sidelined for a considerable period. The injury occurred during a recent training session, and Arsenal confirmed the news in an official statement, indicating that Merino is expected to be out of action for an extended time, with hopes of returning before the season’s end.
Sources close to the club have revealed that Arteta views Merino as a favourite in his tactical setup, praising his versatility, work rate, and ability to link play from deep. The 29-year-old’s absence leaves a significant gap in the Gunners’ engine room, especially as Arsenal sit atop the Premier League table, six points clear after a commanding 4-0 victory over Leeds United.
Ornstein, writing for The Athletic, has confirmed that Arsenal are now surveying the market for potential short-term cover, with a loan deal being the most likely avenue at this late stage of the January window. While no specific targets have been publicly named, insiders suggest the club is looking at experienced midfielders who can provide immediate depth without disrupting long-term plans.
Arsenal had initially anticipated a quiet deadline day, having already loaned out promising youngster Ethan Nwaneri to Marseille for regular game time. However, this decision has come under scrutiny from journalists like Charles Watts, who noted on social media that Nwaneri could have served as internal cover for Merino’s role. Watts emphasized the high stakes of the season, suggesting that keeping the squad intact might have been preferable, though he acknowledged the developmental benefits for the young talent.
The Gunners’ medical team is working closely with Merino to ensure a swift recovery, and the player himself took to Instagram to share an optimistic message: “Time to stop now with a foot injury. Sometimes life throws this kind of challenge when less convenient. Just another opportunity to be strong, resilient and overcome it. We have the best medical team, and together we will come back stronger. Thank you for all the support, it means everything to me.”
Arteta addressed the injury pre-match against Leeds, but the full extent only emerged later, prompting the club to reassess their options. With Kai Havertz returning to fitness and capable of filling some of Merino’s duties, Arsenal may opt for a versatile player who can rotate across midfield positions.
Sources indicate that while a deal is far from guaranteed, Arsenal’s hierarchy is monitoring several opportunities across Europe, including potential loans from clubs in La Liga and Serie A. The focus remains on maintaining their title charge, and any incoming player would need to integrate quickly under Arteta’s demanding regime.
As the clock ticks down on the transfer window, Arsenal fans will be hoping for a positive resolution to this unexpected setback. For now, the club remains focused on supporting Merino’s rehabilitation while keeping an eye on last-minute market movements.
Meanwhile, Arsenal continue to be linked with longer-term targets, including potential summer moves for defensive reinforcements, but any immediate action will be driven by the need to plug the Merino-shaped hole in their squad.