Arsenal are hopeful that this is the year they finally beat Manchester City to the Premier League title after going close the previous two seasons.
The Gunners have propelled themselves up the table under Mikel Arteta, gaining plaudits for impressive squad building, tactical tweaks and overall morale.
The only thing that is missing from this turnaround is the trophies to go with it, as there is only an FA Cup to show for the Arsenal manager’s success so far.
While some of the domestic trophies may be attainable, it’s the Premier League and Champions League that will really interest the Emirates Stadium faithful.
With a team now ready to compete on the biggest stage, there was perhaps one type of player missing from Arteta’s plans.
Arsenal have their own Ilkay Gundogan with Mikel Merino transfer
The one area Arsenal have perhaps lacked some extra firepower in the midfield, with Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard often carrying the side in the central areas.
However, there is often a missing option who can play between the defensive side of the game and the more creative elements.
That’s where new Arsenal signing Mikel Merino comes into play, having sealed a move from Real Sociedad this summer.
The Spaniard is technically excellent with the ball but is plenty capable of winning duels in the defensive phases too.
His experience of winning key matches from midfield is a trait the Gunners will want to tap into, following a campaign of success with Sociedad and Spain in the European Championships.
Merino’s impact could be similar to that of Ilkay Gundogan, who recently made his stunning return to Manchester City.
The German midfielder was on the radar of Arsenal last summer over a transfer, though he opted for Barcelona instead.
Gundogan has often given City those extra margins needed to win a trophy or title, playing between the likes of Rodri and Kevin de Bruyne.
If Merino can do similar, the Gunners may be a step closer to winning the Premier League title.
Arsenal midfield transfer rework
It has been clear over the past two years that the midfield has been the centre of attention for Arteta when it comes to transfer business.
The big-money signing of Rice alongside new arrival Merino outlines the importance of the central areas to the club.
As Jorginho and Thomas Partey enter the final year under contract and towards the latter years of their career, there is still more change to come.
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