Arsenal is currently in discussions with Real Sociedad regarding the potential signing of Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino.
Merino, who played a pivotal role in Spain‘s Euro 2024 victory, participated in all seven matches of the tournament, including scoring a crucial late goal against Germany in the quarter-finals.
With less than a year remaining on his contract, Arsenal may find it easier to negotiate a deal, as Merino would be eligible to speak with other clubs about a free transfer in January. His teammate, Martin Zubimendi, recently turned down a move to Liverpool, opting instead to remain with Sociedad.
If Merino joins Arsenal, the 6ft 2in midfielder would add an imposing presence to the Gunners’ set pieces, complementing their recent signing of Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori. Merino is capable of playing as a deeper midfielder, which could enhance the midfield dynamic alongside Declan Rice, who often played a box-to-box role last season.
This addition would provide Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta with more options in the midfield, allowing for competition with Rice, Jorginho, Thomas Partey, and Martin Ødegaard. Merino has previous Premier League experience from his time at Newcastle before moving to Spain in 2018, and he played alongside Ødegaard during the 2019-20 season when the Norwegian was on loan at Sociedad.
Last season, Merino made 45 appearances across all competitions, scoring eight goals. Arsenal has been active in the transfer market, selling Emile Smith Rowe to Fulham for a deal that could reach £34 million and signing Calafiori for approximately £42 million.
Meanwhile, the future of striker Eddie Nketiah remains uncertain. Although Marseille showed interest in the 25-year-old, no transfer has materialized, and he is also being monitored by Bournemouth and Crystal Palace, although no bids have been made.
BREAKING: Arsenal are in talks with Real Sociedad over the signing of midfielder Mikel Merino, with the player understood to be keen on the move 👇pic.twitter.com/hsCUVTzMTo
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) August 14, 2024
