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Arsenal eye shock deadline day deal after permanent transfer CONFIRMED
Suraj Radia
- 1 Feb 2026 21:08 GMT
- 4 min read
News
Arsenal could make a surprise late January move on transfer deadline day after receiving news that Mikel Merino is facing a significant spell on the sidelines.
Merino missed Arsenal’s win over Leeds on Saturday and his absence is now believed to be for a fractured bone in his foot, which could see him missing for a large portion of the remainder of the season.
Current ETV
Mikel Merino
M, F (C)
Arsenal
Mikel Merino
M, F (C)
Arsenal
ETV Range
€39M - €47.7M
Having been a regular feature for Ajax in midfield and attack this season, multiple reports have suggested that Mikel Arteta could look to dip into the transfer market for a short-term replacement for Merino.
There are said to be no guarantees that Arsenal do sign a player before the 7pm deadline on Monday but the club are surveying the market for a loan deal, according to The Athletic.
There is no timeline on Merino’s return currently and he was also joined by Bukayo Saka, who missed the game against Leeds with a ‘niggle’, according to Arteta, although Arsenal have been boosted by Kai Havertz’s return to action after the German made his first start of the season on the weekend.
Arsenal will likely prove to be opportunistic on Monday’s deadline and only make a move if it is deemed financially sensible and beneficial to their title push.
Zinchenko leaves Arsenal
Meanwhile, Arsenal have confirmed the departure of Oleksandr Zinchenko to Ajax for a fee of €1.5 million plus bonuses.
Zinchenko was on loan at Nottingham Forest but the Ukrainian international has only featured in five Premier League matches and, with his contract up in the summer, a permanent switch to Ajax was seen as the best option for all parties.
“To the Gunners. I will never forget the way you welcomed me,” Zinchenko wrote in a thank you post to fans on social media. “Still remember the goosebumps I got at the first game after hearing your ‘Always beliiiiiieeeve’. I couldn’t even dream about it.
“From the deepest place in my heart I would like to say a massive thank you for everything that you have done for me and my family.”
He added: “To the fans, for love, support and criticism which we as players need to accept and work even harder.
“I just want to wish you all the best and hope you achieve everything whatever you wish. Once a Gunner always a Gunner. Thank you @arsenal.”
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