Arsenal Football Club is seeking solutions to compensate for the absence of Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino, who has been confirmed to be out of action for an extended period due to undergoing foot surgery. This has prompted the club's management to reassess their tactical options in the coming period.

According to press reports, the option to recall the young Ethan Nwaneri is not available, as journalist Sam J. Dean clarified that the contract of the player on loan to Marseille does not include any clause allowing Arsenal to bring him back before the end of the loan period, thus closing this option for the technical staff.

In contrast, media sources revealed a surprising move by Arsenal in the transfer market, as the club is exploring the possibility of signing Italian Sandro Tonali on the last day of the transfer window. However, the task seems difficult after Newcastle United rejected the first attempt, according to "Sky Sports."

Amid the complexity of external deals, coach Mikel Arteta might find himself compelled to rely on his current squad and redeploy some players in the midfield until Merino returns or a suitable solution is found to support the team in the critical stages of the season.