OFFICIAL DONE DEAL✅✅: Following the £30M sales of Lokonga and Tavares, Arsenal swiftly secured the £50M Real Madrid target, with Edu and Josh Kroenke flying to Spain to finalize the deal.
Arsenal have begun discussions with Mikel Merino’s representatives, aiming for a €25 million transfer for the Real Sociedad midfielder, according to FootballTransfers.
Sources indicate that Merino is interested in joining Arsenal and has already expressed his desire to leave Real Sociedad this summer.
Currently, Arsenal are only willing to offer €25 million for Merino. Given that his contract expires in 2025 and his push for an exit, Real Sociedad might be compelled to sell.
FootballTransfers has learned that Merino’s name came up during Arsenal’s negotiations to sign his Real Sociedad and Spain teammate, Martin Zubimendi.
While a transfer for Zubimendi seems unlikely now, Merino could still move to the north London club before the 2024 summer transfer window closes.
Due to Merino’s involvement in Euro 2024, in-person talks have yet to occur, but Arsenal are seriously considering signing the Spanish international.
Mikel Merino’s potential move to Arsenal?
Arteta greatly admires Merino, but the transfer hinges on Real Sociedad’s asking price and their willingness to accept €25 million.
Last season, the 28-year-old scored seven goals and provided four assists in 39 appearances in La Liga and the Champions League.
Additionally, Merino’s injury record is favorable, having missed only 13 games over the past five seasons, which Arsenal views positively.
Arsenal’s strong relationship with Real Sociedad could aid in securing Merino, with past transfers involving players like Kieran Tierney and Nacho Monreal.
David Raya remains Arsenal’s sole signing this summer, joining on a permanent deal from Brentford.