Arsenal identify next summer transfer with move lined up after Mikel Merino confirmation

A new third-choice goalkeeper is on the agenda at Arsenal before the end of the summer transfer window, with Wigan's Sam Tickle emerging as a target

Arsenal are exploring a deal to sign Wigan goalkeeper Sam Tickle. The Gunners want to sign at least one new 'keeper before the transfer window closes on Friday.

They have been looking for a goalkeeper with homegrown status to join the first-team squad. Wolves shot-stopper Dan Bentley had been targeted earlier this summer as a third-choice option but the Gunners saw an offer - believed to be in the region of £50,000 - for the 31-year-old rejected.

But now, Arsenal are looking elsewhere and have their eyes on Wigan's Tickle. According to The Athletic, the Gunners are plotting a potential move for the 22-year-old, who is among the highest-rated young goalkeepers in the EFL, having impressed for Wigan since coming through their academy.

Tickle made 52 appearances in all competitions for Wigan last season, keeping 18 clean sheets, and won their player of the season award. He made his England Under 21s debut in March and was scouted by Everton last season. Tickle signed a new four-year contract back in May that runs until 2028.

In addition to Tickle, the Gunners would like a replacement for Aaron Ramsdale, who has been linked with a move from the Emirates this summer. The 26-year-old wants regular first-team football and has dropped down to second-choice at the club since David Raya arrived from Brentford last summer.

Ramsdale was an unused substitute for Arsenal's first two Premier League matches this season and is eyeing a move away before the end of the window. Ajax and Southampton remain interested in a move for the ex-Bournemouth and Sheffield United 'keeper after Wolves were priced out of a move.

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As for his replacement, Espanyol's Joan Garcia is at the front of the queue after reports suggested he has agreed personal terms on a move to the Gunners. Speaking on the interest from Arsenal for Garcia, Espanyol boss Manolo Gonzalez said: "He is a very good goalkeeper, I am calm when he plays.

"I don't know about the transfer market, although I hope he doesn't leave. What the club tells me is that he should not leave unless a club comes and nothing can be done. He is a great goalkeeper, but the level of the goalkeepers I have is very high."

Arsenal have overseen significant changes on the goalkeeping front this summer. They signed Tommy Setford and Lucas Nygaard to strengthen the Under 21s, while third-choice 'keeper Karl Hein has joined Real Valladolid on a season-long loan. This comes as Raya made his loan move permanent last month.

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