The impressive Arsenal XI Mikel Arteta could field if Julian Alvarez joins Riccardo Calafiori and targets Mikel Merino

Arsenal can boast two different, but equally excellent, starting lineups next season if they continue their impressive summer form.

The Gunners have already welcomed David Raya on a permanent deal and new signing Riccardo Calafiori so far this transfer window.

Ahead of the new season, talkSPORT understands that Mikel Arteta’s side are in talks with Real Sociedad for midfielder Mikel Merino.

We also reported on Saturday that Arsenal have shown an interest in signing Julian Alvarez from Premier League title rivals Manchester City.

Alvarez, who was part of the Copa America-winning squad this summer, revealed he would be considering his future at City, saying: “I haven’t stopped to think about what I’m going to do yet.

“Last season I was one of the players who played the most minutes in the team.

“But it’s true: in the end, in some important games, it’s not pleasant to be left out. I will have time to consider my decision.

“I haven’t stopped to think about things calmly. When the Olympic Games are over, I’m going to take some time to reflect on what I want for myself.

“It can be annoying being out in big games; players always want to help out on the pitch.”

The north London side will certainly be challenging for the title once again if they can secure the signing of both, and talkSPORT.com has looked at two ways they could line up with potential new signings.

Raya is expected to retain his place as Arsenal’s first-choice goalkeeper after keeping 20 clean sheets in all competitions last season on loan from Brentford.

Calafiori could come in as the new left-back, having arrived from Bologna in a deal that could be worth £38m with add-ons.

Although the Italian is best known as a defender, he has also played as a full-back during his career.

One of the main reasons Arsenal conceded the fewest Premier League goals last season – 29 – was the centre-back duo of Gabriel and William Saliba.

The Brazilian and French duo have proven incredibly difficult to face on numerous occasions and are one of the best partnerships in football.

Ben White is likely to become the fourth defender to feature in Arsenal’s backline, having successfully taken on the right-back role under Arteta.

Sitting in front of the defence to act as a defensive midfielder will certainly be Declan Rice.

He featured in all 38 league games last season, scoring an impressive seven goals and providing a further nine assists.

Arsenal could start two players in the No.8 position ahead of Rice, with Sociedad star Merino likely to be one of those included.

The 28-year-old, who previously played in the Premier League for Newcastle, starred for Spain during their Euro 2024 triumph and has a great eye for passing in the middle of the park.

Club captain Martin Odegaard is likely to play alongside him, with the Norwegian one of the best playmakers in the league.

He scored 11 goals and provided 11 assists in all competitions last season, and his creativity has proved influential as the Gunners have advanced.

Despite a difficult last few weeks last season, Gabriel Martinelli could still be selected as a left winger by Arteta.

However, if Arsenal complete the signing of two-time Premier League winner Alvarez from City, the manager’s thinking could change.

Although playing on the left of the attack for the current champions is not an option, he did play there for Argentina.

Alvarez also has a strong right foot, so he would be able to cut inside and shoot towards goal if the opportunity arose.

The 24-year-old could also start in a central attacking role in Arsenal’s front three, given his success for City and his country.

Kai Havertz would likely be his biggest competitor for the spot, having finished the 2023/24 season with 14 goals in all competitions despite his slow start.

Completing the lineup is star forward Bukayo Saka, whose 20 goals and 14 assists last season make him a regular starter for any top club in Europe.

Arsenal kick off the season with a home clash against Wolves on Saturday 17 August.