The midfielder did not feature in Real Sociedad’s opening game of the season in La Liga, recently training individually to ensure that he is primed to be ready for Arteta’s system upon arriving in north London.

The Gunners are expected to continue scouring the market for reinforcements following the signing of Merino, with a signing in the final third not to be ruled out. Arteta has talked up his striker options recently, with Gabriel Jesus impressing in pre-season and Kai Havertz enjoying a strong end to last season, but another option up top is being explored.

With Eddie Nketiah edging closer to an exit, Arsenal may rule that Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli are not sufficient cover for their two natural strikers and look for a last-minute deal.