The Spain international – who played a key role in his nation’s UEFA Euro 2024 success – is unfortunately yet to make his debut. Merino sadly damaged his shoulder in his first training session at London Colney.

Arsenal are still unbeaten in the Premier League without the 28-year-old, at least.

However – before an agreement with Real Sociedad was found – there were several reports stating that Arsenal wanted to sign Joao Palhinha from Fulham.

Joao Palhinha eventually sealed a £47.4m move to Bayern Munich, although at this moment in time, he is probably thinking about what could have been, had he moved to north London instead.

Joao Palhinha struggling for minutes at Bayern Munich after rejecting Arsenal

The man from Lisbon claimed it was “one of the happiest days” of his life to join Bayern Munich, although we are unsure whether he still holds the same jubilant feelings.

Vincent Kompany has handed Palhinha – who Liverpool also looked at – just 126 minutes of action in the Bundesliga, with only one league start to his name, and two occasions where he was left on the bench completely.

It is a strange situation, as the 29-year-old arrived at Bayern Munich in July, so he had plenty of time to adjust to his new environment and tactical setup throughout pre-season.

Mikel Arteta and Edu Gaspar could still revisit a deal in 2025

If Palhinha’s situation in Bavaria does not improve, we would not be surprised to see Arsenal take another look at him in 2025, given the current contract situation at the Emirates Stadium.

Thomas Partey is expected to be released by Arsenal when his deal expires at the end of the season, while Jorginho also becomes a free agent in July 2025 – although the Gunners have an option to extend the Italy international’s contract by a further 12 months.

Both midfielders are still important players for Arteta, so even if one were to leave, we would presume Edu Gaspar will aim to sign a direct replacement, meaning a move for Palhinha may not be dead and buried just yet.

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