Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson has tipped the Gunners to lift the Premier League trophy this season, saying he believes Mikel Arteta’s side now has what it takes to go all the way.

Arsenal came close last season, finishing second behind champions Liverpool, but Merson thinks the summer transfer window has given them the final pieces they needed to compete.

Speaking to Sportskeeda, Merson said:

“If you ask me to pick the favourites to win the Premier League right now, I would have to go with Arsenal. They needed a holding midfielder and a centre-forward this summer, and Mikel Arteta has filled both those gaps quite well.”

The former England international believes the title race will likely come down to Arsenal and Liverpool, depending on which team can keep its star players fit over the course of the season.

“Liverpool did that last time out and ended up winning the league. Arsenal need to do the same, and I’ve got a feeling they’ll get it done this time,” he added.

With renewed squad depth and a clear ambition to challenge, Arsenal fans will be hoping Merson’s prediction proves right and that the club can end its long wait for Premier League glory.