Lookman and Merino sign, Ramsdale out: Arsenal and Arteta's dream end to 24/25 transfer window

As the 2024/25 Premier League season gets underway, Arsenal and manager Mikel Arteta are showing no signs of complacency in their pursuit of the title.

Despite a strong start to the campaign, the Gunners are reportedly still active in the transfer market, looking to bolster their squad before the window closes.

Arsenal kicked off the new season in impressive fashion, securing a comfortable 2-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers.

This performance has set the tone for what the club hopes will be a successful campaign, as they aim to end Manchester City's unprecedented run of four consecutive Premier League titles.

However, Arteta and the Arsenal hierarchy recognise the need for further reinforcements if they are to mount a sustained challenge.

The club is reportedly targeting additions in both midfield and attack to provide depth and quality to an already strong squad.

Two names that have emerged as potential targets are Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman and Mikel Merino, who recently won the Euro 2024 with Spain.

Lookman, known for his pace and creativity on the wing, has seen his stock rise following that historic display against Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League final last season.

The 26-year-old, who became the first player to score a hat-trick in a major UEFA competition, could add another dimension to Arsenal's attacking options.

On the other hand, Merino, a Spanish midfielder with excellent passing range and tactical awareness, could provide crucial depth in the centre of the park for the Gunners.

Interestingly, there are also rumours suggesting that goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale might be on his way out after losing his place to another Spaniard, Raya.

This potential departure could signal a shift in Arsenal's goalkeeping hierarchy, though it's unclear at this stage who might be brought in as a replacement if Ramsdale does leave.

These potential moves indicate that Arsenal is not content to rest on their laurels. The club appears determined to build on the progress made in recent seasons and assemble a squad capable of going toe-to-toe with Manchester City throughout a gruelling Premier League campaign.

As the transfer deadline approaches, Arsenal fans will be watching closely to see if these rumoured moves materialise. The additions of players like Lookman and Merino, combined with the strong core already in place, could potentially give the Gunners the boost they need to mount a serious title challenge in the 2024/25 season.

With Manchester City aiming for an unprecedented fifth consecutive title, the pressure is on Arsenal to strengthen. The next few days could prove crucial in shaping the Gunners' prospects for the season ahead.