Arsenal were forced to become active on transfer deadline day.
The Gunners had no plans to enter the market, but Mikel Merino’s injury made Andrea Berta look for new options in the middle of the park.
Arsenal were linked with a move to sign Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United on Monday morning, but those links were rubbished very soon.
The Premier League leaders are still keeping an eye on potential options, but they could put their plans aside now because of one player – Max Dowman.
After Merino’s injury, who should Arsenal sign in a shock deadline day deal?
Arsenal think Max Dowman could replace Mikel Merino
Mikel Merino is a very unique player.
The Arsenal number 23 can play anywhere in midfield and also as a striker, which is a very rare ability. Nobody else at the club can do that.
That is why the Gunners thought about exploring the market for a replacement, but Miguel Delaney has revealed that they could change their mind now.
The journalist has claimed that there is a feeling at Arsenal under Mikel Arteta that young Dowman could step up and replace Merino.
That is very strange as the two players have different styles, but the Gunners boss’ faith in the teenager could now make them decide against signing anyone on deadline day.
Delaney tweeted: “Arsenal have been surveying options given Merino’s injury, but more likely they leave it, as there’s an awareness Dowman can step up.
“They’re conscious he has to be managed well at his age, but also looks ready for impact moments.”
READ MORE: Max Dowman says he currently has three role models and all of them play for Arsenal
Imagine it’s the year 2030. How much is Max Dowman worth?
Arsenal may need Max Dowman in another position
Merino has mostly played as a central midfielder for Arsenal, while all of Dowman’s first-team appearances have come on the right wing.
It is surprising to hear that the teenager could take Merino’s role in the side, but what the Gunners need to be aware of is that he could be needed in another position as well.
Dowman should be viewed as an option to replace Bukayo Saka on the right flank if the England international’s injury keeps him out for an extended period of time.
That means Arsenal will still need a midfielder to take Merino’s role in the squad, but it is unlikely that they will be able to sign a new player before the deadline.
Arteta could then turn to another academy graduate to provide cover in midfield – Myles Lewis-Skelly.
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
