HERE WE GO: Arsenal has finalized the signing of a £43 million playmaker after reaching an agreement with the other club last night. The player will take on the jersey number previously worn by Smith Rowe. The deal is complete – welcome to the Emirates!
Arsenal is eager to secure Mikel Merino, one of Real Sociedad’s standout players, as their top midfield target, according to the Gipuzkoa edition of Mundo Deportivo. Reports indicate that Arsenal has made a verbal offer of £26 million for Merino, although no official bid has been placed yet.
Arsenal is “prepared to go all out” to sign the Spanish international, but Sociedad has yet to receive an official offer from them. Notably, Atletico Madrid is the only club to have made a proposal for Merino, which he declined.
It seems that Arsenal might soon secure Merino’s signature. The Gunners have already agreed on personal terms with the Spaniard for a long-term contract. Sociedad’s recent signing of Luka Susic from Red Bull Salzburg, a left-footed central midfielder, suggests they are preparing for Merino’s exit.
Arsenal typically focuses on one deal at a time, and having completed Emile Smith Rowe’s transfer to Fulham, they might now speed up their efforts to sign Merino. Kieran Tierney has praised Merino as “world-class,” emphasizing his defensive skills and creativity.
Merino, a Euro 2024 winner, had an outstanding last season in La Liga, averaging 10.2 duels won, 6.2 recoveries, and 2.4 tackles per game, along with nearly two clearances per match. He also contributed 13 goals, demonstrating his well-rounded abilities, making him an ideal signing for manager Mikel Arteta.