There is certainly a theme connecting most of the Arsenal signings made during the Edu Gaspar and Mikel Arteta era.
Riccardo Calafiori, after sealing his £34 million move from Bologna last week, was quick to highlight his ability to play in a variety of roles during his unveiling as a Gunners player.
“I can play in different positions,” the Italy international tells BBC Sport, brought in to add depth at centre-half and at left-back. “I don’t care where but I just want to play.”
Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu also arrived at Arsenal as centre-halves before making their name as full-backs under Arteta. Jurrien Timber, the former Ajax star who’s impact thus far has been limited by injury, will provide competition for both White and William Saliba when back to full fitness.
Jakub Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko, meanwhile, have also been fielded in a number of defensive spots.
Versatility, clearly, is an attribute Arsenal look for.
And though Kai Havertz spent much of his debut season at the Emirates Stadium spearheading the attaack as a number nine – an ‘amazing team player’ making terrific progress along the way – the German’s impressive 70-minute outing as part of a midfield trio against Liverpool was a reminder of his ability to thrive in a deeper position.
Mikel Arteta hails Kai Havertz display in Arsenal defeat
Havertz scored Arsenal’s consolation in that 2-1 defeat by Arne Slot’s side at the Lincoln Financial Field.
Following a trademark Martin Odegaard pass, the £65 million signing from Chelsea cleverly glanced his finish into the far corner.
And with Gabriel Jesus back available following an injury-hit 2023/24, Havertz’ performance felt like a timely reminder of his capabilities when freed up from his line-leading responsibilities.
“Yes, (Havertz) was good. He scored a goal,” Arteta tells Football London. “I think he’s had only four training sessions but he’s come again in good shape.
“He prepared himself before he joined us and he looked good. We know his quality and it’s something that the team has to take a lot of value from.”
Havertz lined up on the left of Odegaard and Thomas Partey against a Liverpool side who raced into a 2-0 lead by the 34th minute mark thanks to Mo Salah and Fabio Carvalho.
Mikel Merino set to arrive from Real Sociedad
Arteta has no shortage of options for the role former skipper Granit Xhaka once made his own in North London. Ethan Nwaneri, the teen sensation, dazzled in the weekend’s 2-1 win over Manchester United.
Arsenal are also closing in on the signing of Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad, one of Europe’s most underrated midfield talents also at his most effective when driving forwards from the left-hand side.
HITC understands that La Real want around £25 million for the one-time Newcastle United and Borussia Dortmund youngster. Now 28, Merino has agreed a four-year deal in principle at Arsenal having turned down the chance to sign a new contract at Anoeta.
We are aware that Merino has offers, and we know them,” Real Sociedad president Jokin Apperibay told Mundo Deportivo earlier in the week.
“The conversation with him and those around him has been very sincere and hopefully his decision is to stay. He already knows that we want him to stay.
“He has had a renewal offer for some time. And if (he decides not to sign the contract), we will try to negotiate the best way out for Real.
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