Barcelona youth star, Fran Merida has just turned up in the squad for the Borehamwood friendly, writes ANR reader Kieran Hopkins. For reference: http://www.arsenal.com/matchreport.asp?thisNav=The+Match&fxid=297662&cpid=&clid=
He comes with a reputation. This is what he's like: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7x2gg7CsZuM&search=merida
Meanwhile wires reported at 10 am that Jose Antonio Reyes has said he hopes to clear a move to Real Madrid before Arsenal play their Champions League third qualifying round match against Dinamo Zagreb on Tuesday.
"The manager (Arsene Wenger) hasn't said anything to me and I don't know if I am going to play or not. I hope I don't or that everything will be resolved before then," Reyes was quoted as telling sports daily Marca on Friday.
"Obviously, if I do, it will make a move to Real a lot more difficult. But if I have to play, I will play."
Real's Predrag Mijatovic said on Wednesday he was not an immediate priority for them.
Despite denying reports a week ago that he wanted a move back to Spain, Reyes went on to add: "I don't know what is happening but I am a little unsettled by all the rumours."
Ashley Cole is included in the squad for Zagreb. He is not going on strike and will play if he's asked to, according to several papers.
Cesc Fabregas is set for an improved contract, to reflect his seniority and also due to loyalty he has shown Arsenal, says the Evening Standard.
"We were very grateful to Real Madrid for the offer but at this moment Cesc is very happy in London," added his agent Diaz. "He is grateful to Mr Wenger and Arsenal for their role in his development and to the fans for the support they have given him. Every year Arsenal have challenged for trophies and he is happy to be at such a big club."
Theo Walcott is set to play against Dutch club AZ Alkmaar tonight, according to a couple of papers – ES and Guardian.
Owen Hargreaves has again admitted an ambition to move to the Premiership, in the Malay Mail.
The Bayern Munich midfielder, who has been linked with Arsenal, said: "I am still young and have been fortunate to have had a lot of great experience at Bayern Munich who are a great club and one of the best in Europe. But getting the opportunity to play at one of the top teams in the Premiership would be great," he added.
The Football Association plans to launch an investigation into allegations by Leeds United that Chelsea illegally approached three young players after the Football League yesterday received a formal complaint from the Elland Road club. If found guilty, in theory could affect Chelsea signing new players, like Cole.
Arsenal reserve team player, Anthony Stokes could seal a one-year loan at Sunderland today.
And finally, Thailand football club – BEC Tero Sasana has asked Arsenal to send some of their young players to Thailand to play with the team and also wants Arsenal to help two Thai players to get lower league experience.
Arsenal have an established relationship with the club.