Arsenal 'reach agreement' for huge second summer transfer just days after signing Riccardo Calafiori

Arsenal have reportedly reached an agreement with another player after sealing the signing of Riccardo Calafiori.

On Monday afternoon, the Gunners announced the signing of Italian defender Calafiori from Bologna.

A statement read: “Italy international Riccardo Calafiori has joined us from Serie A side Bologna on a long-term contract.

“The 22-year-old defender was a member of the Azzurri squad at Euro 2024, after a season full of impressive performances at the heart of Bologna’s defence.”

Just days after sealing the deal for Calafiori, it has been claimed that Arsenal could be closing in on another signing.

As reported by Sports Zone, Arsenal have agreed personal terms with Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino.

The Gunners are believed to have reached an agreement over a four-year contract until 2028.

Merino, 28, was part of the Spain squad that won Euro 2024 and netted the winner against Germany in the quarter-final.

The Spaniard previously played in the Premier League when he represented Newcastle United back in 2017.

However, Merino returned to Spain for a reported fee of £10 million after a disappointing season with the Magpies.

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After signing Calafiori, Gunners boss Mikel Arteta said: “We welcome Riccardo and his family to Arsenal. He is a great signing and gives us huge strength to reinforce our defence.

“Riccardo is a big personality and character, with specific skills which will make us stronger as we push to win major trophies. He has already shown great development in recent seasons with his performances for both Bologna and Italy, with his progression and development in the past year being really impressive.”

Arsenal are back in pre-season action on Wednesday night when they take on Liverpool at the Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

After Liverpool, Arteta’s men will face the likes of Bayer Leverkusen and Lyon before kicking off their 24/25 Premier League campaign against Wolverhampton Wanderers.