Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino is facing a spell on the sidelines after sustaining a shoulder injury in training.
The Spain international only joined the Gunners on Tuesday from Real Sociedad but will have to wait to make his debut following a freak incident involving centre-half Gabriel.
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Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta explained: “Very unfortunate. Yesterday he had a collision and he has a shoulder injury. It looks like he’s going to be out for a few weeks.
“He was really excited and everything was looking really good. He landed on the floor and Gabi [Gabriel] landed on top of him and it looks like he has a small fracture probably.”
Arsenal are closing in on the signing of Bournemouth goalkeeper Neto, who will act as back-up to David Raya following Aaron Ramsdale’s move to Southampton.
Arteta praised Ramsdale for his impact in North London and believes the switch to St Mary’s benefits all parties.
He added: “Thank you so much for what he’s done for the club, for the team and for myself.
“He brought a lot of joy and charisma and was really good when he joined. He had a situation that was really good for him. He insisted that he’s really joyful when he plays and we tried to arrange that.”
Representing The Arsenal with class.
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— Arsenal (@Arsenal) August 30, 2024
Any truth in Sterling rumours?
Arsenal have also been linked with a late, deadline-day move for out-of-favour Chelsea winger Raheem Sterling, who worked with Arteta at Manchester City.
But Arteta was not interested in discussing Sterling, or the possible outgoing deal that would see striker Eddie Nketiah move across London to Crystal Palace.
He did refuse to rule out any late activity in the window, however, saying: “Overall we have tried to do all the things we wanted. It was a lot to do. There is still a few hours to go. We are prepared.
“Let’s see, it’s always possible.
“In the last 24 hours of the transfer window never rule out anything.”
Arsenal host Brighton tomorrow in a battle between two sides that have a 100 per cent record after two Premier League games.
