Transfer Talk: Arsenal hinge title hopes on Williams, Merino

TOP STORY: Arsenal look to Williams, Merino

Arsenal are targeting two LALIGA stars amid hopes of mounting another Premier League title challenge, according to the Standard.

Athletic Club winger Nico Williams is reported to be on the Gunners' shortlist, with manager Mikel Arteta looking to improve his forward line, and the 22-year-old seen as an ideal option. Williams was a standout performer for Spain at the European Championship, though the Emirates Stadium hierarchy could face competition for his signature from Barcelona. A move for Williams is believed to increase the likelihood of Eddie Nketiah being moved on amid interest from Ligue 1 side Marseille.

It is believed that Arsenal are also on the lookout for a defensive midfielder, having identified Real Sociedad fulcrum Mikel Merino as a potential reinforcement. Merino, 28, is another player who has also been on the radar of Barcelona, and recent reports have indicated that a release clause in his contract can be activated for €60 million.

The two Spain internationals could be the next in line for a potential move to north London after Fabrizio Romano reported on Wednesday that a deal for Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori had been completed, with the 22-year-old set to join Arteta's side imminently.

- Manchester United have drawn up a three-player shortlist as they look to acquire a left-back, according to the Mirror. Feyenoord's Dávid Hancko, 26, and Crystal Palace star Tyrick Mitchell, 24 are reported to be two that the Red Devils could make an approach for, but they are also open to a potential move for Marcos Alonso, who is available on a free transfer after his contract at Barcelona expired last month.

- Talks are continuing between Aston Villa and Atletico Madrid over a deal for forward João Félix, reports Fabrizio Romano. The 24-year-old is reported to be the "dream signing" for Villans manager Unai Emery, though the Premier League side accept that a move could be difficult. Felix was on loan at Barcelona last season, where he contributed to 10 goals in 30 LALIGA matches.

- Negotiations between Napoli and Chelsea over a transfer fee for striker Romelu Lukaku are set to continue over the coming days, according to Gianluca Di Marzio. The Serie A club are keen to land the 31-year-old and are willing to make an offer worth €25m plus bonuses, but the Blues are currently demanding €35m. Lukaku is seen as the perfect signing for new manager Antonio Conte, while forward Victor Osimhen continues to be linked with a move away from the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium.

- Al Ittihad are keen on a move for Real Madrid centre-back Antonio Rüdiger, according to El Chiringuito TV. The Saudi Pro League side are believed to have made the 31-year-old a priority transfer option for this summer, and they are ready to tempt him to make the switch there with a salary offer worth €13m per season. Rudiger played a pivotal role for Los Blancos in the last campaign, making 48 appearances across all competitions.