Why 'imposing figure' Merino is a good fit for Arsenal

Arsenal missed out on the Premier League title by just two points last season, with many pointing to their lack of a natural striker as the reason why.

Supporters were expecting to see a new face up front during this transfer window but manager Mikel Arteta has so far opted to strengthen his backline and midfield with the additions of Riccardo Calafiori and Mikel Merino.

The Gunners have brought in Merino because the Spain international is able to play as both a number eight and a holding midfielder position, allowing Declan Rice to continue to play in his more box-to-box role when needed.

At 6ft 2in, he is another imposing figure in the big side Arteta is building.

The club feel he is a big personality with the ability to lead and, fresh from a glorious summer with Spain at Euro 2024, is a proven winner.

They believe he will be a good addition to a group hoping to win trophies this season.