The impressive Arsenal XI Mikel Arteta could field if Julian Alvarez joins Riccardo Calafiori and targets Mikel Merino

Arsenal could boast two different but equally excellent starting XIs next season if they continue their impressive summer form.

The gunmen They have already welcomed David Raya with a permanent contract and the new signing of Ricardo Calafiori So far in this transfer window.

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Ahead of the new season, talkSPORT has learned that Mikel Arteta's side are in talks with Real Sociedad for midfielder Mikel Merino.

We also reported on Saturday that Arsenal had expressed interest in signing of julian alvarez from Premier League title rivals Manchester City.

AlvarezThe 33-year-old, who was part of his country's Copa America-winning side this summer, revealed he is reportedly considering his future at City, saying: “I haven't stopped to think about what I'm going to do.

“Last season I was one of the players who played the most minutes in the team.

“But it's true: in the end, in some important matches, it's not nice to be left out. I'll have time to think about my decision.”

“I haven't stopped to think things over calmly. Once the Olympics are over, I will take the time to reflect on what I want for myself.

“It may be annoying to be left out in important games; players always want to help out on the pitch.”

The north London outfit will surely challenge for the crown once again if they manage to sign both, and talkSPORT.com has looked at two ways they could line up with potential new additions.

Raya is set to retain his place as Arsenal's first-choice goalkeeper after keeping 20 clean sheets in all competitions last season while on loan from Brentford.

The new left-back could be Calafiori, who has joined from Bologna in a deal that could reach £38m with add-ons.

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Although the Italian international is primarily a centre-back, he has also previously played as a full-back during his career.

One of the key reasons why Arsenal conceded the fewest goals in the Premier League last season (29) was their centre-back partnership of Gabriel and William Saliba.

The Brazilian and French duo have proven to be incredibly difficult to play against on several occasions and are one of the best partnerships in football.

Ben White is likely to become the fourth centre-back to feature in Arsenal's backline after successfully assuming the right-back role under Arteta.

Sitting in front of the defence and acting as a defensive midfielder will likely be Declan Rice.

He played in all 38 league games last season, scoring an impressive seven goals and assisting nine others.

Arsenal could have two starting players in the No.8 spot ahead of Rice, with Real Sociedad star Merino possibly one of them.

The 28-year-old, who previously played in the Premier League for Newcastle, starred for Spain during their Euro 2024 triumph and has a great eye for a pass in midfield.

Club captain Martin Odegaard is likely to play alongside him, with the Norwegian being one of the best playmakers in the league.

He scored 11 goals and provided 11 assists in all competitions last season, and his creativity proved influential when the Gunners attacked.

Despite a difficult final few weeks of last season, Arteta could still give Gabriel Martinelli the nod as a left winger.

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Should Arsenal complete the signing of the two-time Premier League champions, though? Alvarez At City, the coach's thinking could change.

Although it is not usual for the current champions to play on the left of the attack, he has played there with Argentina.

Alvarez also has a strong right foot, so he could cut inside and shoot towards goal if the opportunity arose.

The 24-year-old could also find himself starting in a central attacking role in Arsenal's front three given his success there for City and his country.

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Kai Havertz would likely be his strongest competitor for that spot, having finished the 2023/24 campaign with 14 goals in all competitions despite his slow start.

Completing the line-up is star man Bukayo Saka, whose 20 goals and 14 assists last season make him worthy of a starting spot at any top club in Europe.

Arsenal begin their season with a home clash against Wolves on Saturday 17 August.