Arsenal is experiencing moments of tension on this deadline day of the Premier League winter transfer window, which closes at 7pm (Londres time) this Monday, February 2, 2026. The London club confirmed that midfielder Mikel Merino suffered a fracture in his right foot and will undergo surgery in the coming days, which will leave him sidelined for an extended period. The injury occurred during the 3-2 defeat to Manchester United, on January 25, and changes the plans of the championship leading team.
The Arsenal board evaluates options on the market to reinforce the midfield, especially in loan negotiations or last-minute signings. Mikel Arteta, the team’s coach, admitted the seriousness of the situation and did not rule out movements before the window closed. The club maintains a good position in the table, with 53 points in 24 games, but the absence of Merino represents a risk to the consistency of the campaign.
Merino has established itself as an important player since its arrival, bringing physical balance and technical quality to the sector. His loss coincides with a decisive phase of the season, including commitments in the Champions League and the fight for the English title.
Details of Merino’s injury
Mikel Merino felt pain in his right foot during the game against Manchester United, on January 25, at Emirates Stadium. Exames later revealed a fracture that required surgical intervention, as announced by Arsenal in an official statement. The Spaniard did not participate in the victory over Leeds United the weekend before deadline day.
Experts consulted by the club indicate that the recovery period could extend for months, depending on the success of the operation. Merino had already demonstrated his importance this season, with six goals in 33 matches played up until the moment of the injury. Sua absence directly affects the midfield rotation, an area already monitored by the technical committee.
Impact on the Arsenal cast
Merino’s injury reduces Mikel Arteta’s options in midfield, especially in high physical intensity games. The Spanish player contributes with strong marking and ball distribution, characteristics that complement Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard. Sem him, Arsenal loses depth in a crucial sector for maintaining leadership in Premier League.
The club invested heavily in its squad during the European summer, with eight signings worth around £250 million. However, the winter window was uneventful until this unexpected injury occurred. The team maintains a recent unbeaten record in some competitions, but the lack of Merino can be felt in direct confrontations against rivals.
- Physical presence in aerial duels and on the ground;
- Ability to progress with long passes;
- Experience in European competitions;
- Defensive balance in quick transitions.
These attributes make the search for a replacement a priority in the final hours of the window.
Options in the transfer market
Arsenal directs efforts towards the loan market, the most viable modality on this deadline day. Rumores indicate interest in players available for quick negotiations, including possible returns of loaned athletes. Ethan Nwaneri, a promising young player on temporary loan, appears as an option for immediate recall.
Other names are circulating behind the scenes, such as midfielders from English or European clubs who accept last-minute departures. The board prioritizes profiles that quickly adapt to the Arteta style, without requiring high financial investment. Closing the window at 7pm imposes urgency on the negotiations.
The club avoids expensive permanent signings, focusing on temporary solutions that maintain the balance of the squad. Negociações advances may be announced in the coming hours, depending on the evolution of the conversations.
Mikel Arteta Declarations
Mikel Arteta commented on Merino’s situation in a recent press conference, highlighting his concern about recovery time. The Spanish coach stated that the club monitors the market and will make decisions based on immediate needs. Ele praised the resilience of the current squad, but recognized the impact of his compatriot’s absence.
Arteta emphasized that Arsenal is prepared for different scenarios in this final stretch of the window. The coach avoids public promises about signings, preferring to maintain discretion in negotiations. Sua management prioritizes stability, but the injury forces tactical adaptations in upcoming commitments.
Context of the current season
Arsenal leads Premier League with 53 points, ahead of Manchester City, who has 47. The team demonstrates defensive solidity and offensive power, with 16 victories in 24 rounds played until February. The campaign includes advances in Champions League, where the club is seeking an unprecedented title.
Merino quickly integrated into the group since the start of the season, contributing at decisive moments. Sua fracture reaches the definition phase of the English championship, with games against direct competitors on the horizon. Arsenal maintains its goal of winning trophies, supported by a reinforced squad last summer.
The winter window generally brings little movement for the club, but exceptions occur in cases of serious injuries. The board works to preserve competitiveness on all fronts.
Possible movements in the final hours
In the last hours of deadline day, Arsenal intensifies contacts with agents and clubs. Opções of loans gain priority, allowing reinforcement without compromising long-term financial planning. The club evaluates young and experienced profiles that add immediately.
Rumors include interest in midfield players available on the English market. The final decision depends on operational feasibility and technical approval. Arsenal seeks to maintain secrecy until official confirmations.
Position in the table and upcoming challenges
Arsenal occupies first place over Premier League, with a comfortable advantage over its pursuers. The six point difference to second place reflects consistency throughout the season. Jogos against Aston Villa and Manchester City will test the ability to make up for the absence of Merino.
The team also advances in domestic cups, maintaining chances in multiple competitions. Current leadership encourages caution in market decisions, prioritizing quality over quantity.
- Recent victory over Leeds United without Merino;
- Defeat for Manchester United who revealed the injury;
- Undefeated streak prior to the injury;
- Decisive matches at Champions League.
These factors influence the club’s strategy on this deadline day.
Prospects for the midfield
With Merino out, players like Thomas Partey get more minutes on the field. RPM increases, requiring careful management of Arteta to avoid fatigue. Reforços would bring immediate relief to the sector.
Arsenal built a versatile squad, capable of adapting formations as needed. The search for a new name reflects caution for the final stretch of the season.
Deadline day represents a final opportunity for adjustments before intense months of competitions.
