Merson's Blueprint: Arsenal Need £182m Pair to Become Unstoppable

Arsenal's 2025/26 campaign ended in cruel fashion, succumbing to PSG on penalties in the Champions League final despite a thrilling 4-3 encounter. Yet the sting of that defeat cannot diminish what Mikel Arteta's side accomplished in the league—finally breaking a 22-year drought to claim the Premier League crown.

Paul Merson believes the Gunners are well-positioned to mount another title challenge, but the legendary Gunner has identified precisely what Arsenal need to elevate themselves from contenders to genuine European forces.

Speaking on the Sports Agents podcast, Merson outlined his vision for Arsenal's summer recruitment. "I'd be shocked if Arsenal went away," he declared, pointing to the quality already embedded throughout Arteta's squad. "They're a proper solid, solid football team with solid seven, eight out of 10 players, week in, week out. Across the board, sevens and eights."

The missing ingredient, according to Merson, is a pace-laden centre-forward capable of terrorising defences. "They're screaming out for a centre forward with pace," he explained. "If they can get a centre forward with pace, who's electric, then I think they'll dominate, and I think they've got every chance of the Champions League next year."

Merson's solution comes in the form of a £182m double swoop. Atlético Madrid's Julián Álvarez, valued at £130m, would provide that electric presence up front, whilst PSG's Désiré Doué—who arrived at the Parisians for £52m—would add further creativity and dynamism to Arteta's attack.

"I would like a Doué and an Alvarez," Merson enthused. "If they got them, then wow – I dread to think who's going to stop Arsenal!"

The assessment carries particular weight given Arsenal's summer agenda. Fabrizio Romano has reported that the Gunners are virtually certain to make at least three additions during the transfer window as Arteta plots his assault on multiple fronts.

Bournemouth's Junior Kroupi has emerged as a potential budget-friendly alternative to Álvarez, though reports suggest the talented winger may opt for a rival destination rather than a move to the Emirates.