Arsenal Hunt New Midfielder After Mikel Merino Injury Blow Rocks Transfer Plans

Arsenal have announced that midfielder Mikel Merino will be sidelined for a "prolonged duration" as he undergoes surgery for a foot injury that, based on media reports, has prompted the Gunners to seek a potential signing before Monday's transfer window closes.

Merino was absent from the 4–0 victory against Leeds United, following which coach Mikel Arteta acknowledged that specialized medical attention might be required. It subsequently became apparent that Arsenal were concerned the Spanish player may have sustained a severe injury.

These worries proved to be well-founded as Arsenal announced Merino requires an operation on a bone problem in his right foot that will sideline him for a considerable time.

Although Arsenal refrained from specifying a timeframe for Merino's comeback, they expressed optimism that the 29-year-old could resume training before the current campaign concludes.

This represents a devastating setback at such a late point in the transfer period, with time running out for Arsenal in their quest to secure a replacement.

Arsenal Begin Search for New Signing

Arsenal Begin Search for New Signing

Following this development, David Ornstein reported that Arsenal are actively pursuing a possible loan acquisition to help mitigate the impact of Merino's setback.

Instead of investing heavily in a marquee player, Arsenal are believed to be concentrating their efforts on temporary additions who can provide squad depth for the remainder of the campaign. Rumored connections to Newcastle United's Sandro Tonali have been dismissed by other sources.

With only hours remaining to secure a new player, there is certainly no assurance that Arsenal will successfully complete a transaction.

Merino Breaks Silence on Injury Blow

Merino Breaks Silence on Injury Blow

Using social media after his injury news was made public, Merino, whose World Cup preparations this summer have been thrown into doubt, pledged to return with greater determination.

In a message mentioning both Arsenal and Spain's national squad, Merino stated: "Time to pause now with a foot injury. Sometimes life presents these kinds of obstacles when it's least convenient. Just another chance to be strong, determined and overcome it. We have the finest medical staff and together we will return stronger.

"Thank you all, your encouragement means everything to me and I can't wait to be back on the field soon, supporting my team and doing what I love."