The Gunners reached an agreement to sign the Spaniard earlier this week and he has already undergone his medical.

Merino has verbally agreed on a four-year deal. He is expected to sign the contract before an announcement tomorrow.

The 28-year-old is set to become the club's third signing of the summer after David Raya and Riccardo Calafiori .

The arrival of Merino could coincide with the departure of Eddie Nketiah as the club look to free up space and wages.

Nketiah was close to joining Nottingham Forest this week, but the move broke down due to differences in personal terms.

Crystal Palace are now negotiating terms with the striker and they are optimistic of securing a transfer agreement too.

Arsenal could yet invest on a forward signing before the transfer deadline.

With Gabriel Jesus picking up a fresh groin injury, the Gunners could be forced to enter the transfer market again.

Related

---