'I’m sure that will happen': Jamie Redknapp says Mikel Arteta is about to sign a 'fantastic' player at Arsenal

Arsenal have made it two win from two in the Premier League having beaten Aston Villa 2-0 at Villa Park on Saturday evening.

This was billed as a very tough challenge for Arsenal having lost twice to Aston Villa last season.

Arsenal didn’t even score against Villa last term, so facing off against old boss Unai Emery was a major test for Mikel Arteta’s side.

The Gunners rode their luck at times and David Raya made one ridiculous save to keep Ollie Watkins at bay.

Arsenal then took full advantage as substitute Leandro Trossard fired Arteta’s men in front.

Thomas Partey added number two as Arsenal not only claimed another victory but also yet another clean sheet under Arteta.

Jamie Redknapp on Arsenal transfer

Arsenal will be delighted with two wins from two, four goals scored and none conceded in the first two games.

The next major date in the calendar for Arsenal is transfer deadline day with the window slamming shut on Friday.

Fans would love an attacking signings, especially with Nottingham Forest chasing a deal for Eddie Nketiah and Gabriel Jesus now injured.

Arsenal do appear to be close to one signing though with Mikel Merino nearing a move to North London.

Arteta has made Real Sociedad midfielder Merino a key target and Jamie Redknapp has delivered his verdict on the move.

Speaking on Sky Sports (24/01, 19:55), Redknapp suggested that Merino was ‘really good’ for Spain at Euro 2024, with his quarter-final winner against Germany a particular high point.

Redknapp noted that Merino looks like a ‘fantastic player’ and simply ‘perfect’ for the Premier League, seemingly pointing towards his size and technical ability.

Redknapp added that he is ‘sure’ Arsenal will get the Merino deal over the line as anticipated, with the Gunners keen to give Arteta the signing he wants.

“They’re talking about getting in Merino, obviously he had a really good Euros for Spain,” said Redknapp. “He looks a fantastic player, perfect profile for the Premier League, that’s a player that he wants to get in – I’m sure that will happen,” he added.

Merino the replacement for Granit Xhaka

Arsenal’s move for Merino will be a real boost to Arteta’s midfield options and especially on the left side of the engine room.

Declan Rice has taken that role so far this season whilst the likes of Fabio Vieira and Kai Havertz have been utilised there in the past.

This has become a somewhat clunky position for Arsenal since Granit Xhaka’s exit last summer with Rice the best option for now.

Merino offers a real replacement for Xhaka though and will hopefully unlock some improved interplay down the left side.

Merino is naturally left footed, has plenty of experience under his belt and is technically very impressive whilst also offering some physicality to his game.

It’s easy to see why Arsenal see Merino as a potential Xhaka heir in terms of controlling the game in that left-sided central midfield role whilst being able to make a big impact going forward.

Merino has perviously featured in the Premier League with Newcastle United but is now a much improved player and is ready to shine in the famous red and white Arsenal shirt.