Exclusive: Which midfielder is Arsenal’s top transfer target, according to expert

Mikel Merino is more likely than a Fabian Ruiz to be the top transfer target in midfield for Arsenal this summer, according to Charles Watts.

Speaking exclusively to CaughtOffside for the latest edition of his weekly Daily Briefing column, Watts explained that he now expects the Gunners to move for Merino now that the signing of Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori has been officially completed and announced by the club.

Although Watts is aware of the Ruiz to Arsenal links, it seems he’s not entirely convinced it’s anything concrete at the moment, with Merino still the more likely option to join Mikel Arteta’s side.

Still, Watts also stressed the need for Arsenal to leave space in midfield for talented homegrown youngster Ethan Nwaneri, who has shone in pre-season so far and who now looks like he might be old enough to become more of a regular fixture in the first-team in the season ahead.

Merino transfer: Arsenal expert tips Spain star to shine in the Premier League

Discussing the latest on the Merino deal, Watts provided his latest information on Arsenal’s pursuit of the 28-year-old, whilst also tipping him to shine in English football.

“I’m fully expecting Arsenal to step up their attempts to bolster their midfield now their move for Riccardo Calafiori has been confirmed,” Watts said.

“We know that Mikel Merino is a player they like. The club had identified him as a target before the Euros and his brief performances for Spain in Germany only confirmed that he is a player who could make an impact in the Premier League.

“There is believed to be rival interest in Merino from clubs in Spain, as he is expected to be available at a good price due to his contract status at Real Sociedad.

“But I do think Arsenal will step up their interest in the 28-year-old having finally secured the signature of Calafiori.

“There have been links to other midfielders. I’ve seen Fabian Ruiz mentioned recently. That’s not one I’ve heard anything on myself yet, but he is a fine player of course.

“I still think Merino is the main target though and he would be a fine addition. He would add versatility, which is so important to any signing who comes in under Mikel Arteta.

“Physically, he looks well suited to the Premier League and along with Calafiori, looks like he could really bolster Arsenal’s left-sided options for the new season.

“I think an important thing to remember when looking at Arsenal’s midfield is that a pathway needs to be left for someone like Ethan Nwaneri to progress over the next 12 months.

“Nwaneri has shown during the pre-season tour in the United States that he is more than good enough to make an impact at senior level. He looks totally at home in the first-team environment and you can see that the senior players trust him enough to give him the ball, even when he is under pressure.

“The imminent departure of Emile Smith Rowe should give Nwaneri a real opportunity, so you don’t want to bring in too many players that end up blocking the pathway of a young player with so much talent.”