Real Madrid will not launch the offensive over a summer move for 28-year-old Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino, a target for Arsenal and Barcelona.
According to a report by Spanish outlet SPORT, Mikel Merino has been the subject of interest from Real Madrid. However, Los Blancos will not launch the offensive to sign the Real Sociedad midfielder in the summer transfer window. Meanwhile, Arsenal and Barcelona are also keen on landing the 28-year-old.
The rise of Mikel Merino at Real Sociedad
Mikel Merino has been one of the best players in La Liga since returning to Spain in July 2018 by joining Real Sociedad from Newcastle United. The Spaniard was struggling for stability half a dozen years ago but has gone from strength to strength at San Sebastian in the last six seasons.
The 28-year-old has turned out nearly 250 times thus far for Real Sociedad while chipping in with 27 goals and 30 assists. Meanwhile, Merino’s progress at the Reale Arena has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs across Europe, including Arsenal, Barcelona, and Real Madrid.
A man in demand
Recent reports have pointed to Arsenal pushing hard to secure Mikel Merino’s services in the summer transfer window. With the Spanish international entering the final 12 months of his contract, he will be available for a cost-effective sum this summer. So, amid uncertainties surrounding the long-term future of Thomas Partey, Merino is a viable target for Arsenal.
Meanwhile, Barcelona’s interest in Mikel Merino is understandable. The Catalan giants have identified the 28-year-old Real Sociedad midfielder as their top target heading into the summer transfer window. With Sergio Busquets leaving a gaping hole in the midfield department since leaving the club last summer, Merino is an option worth considering for Barcelona.
The Spaniard has also been a target for Real Madrid heading into the summer transfer window. With Toni Kroos no longer at the club, Los Blancos can do with a player of Mikel Merino’s quality, even though he will not be a like-for-like replacement. However, Real Madrid will not launch the offensive for Merino in the summer transfer window.
The report suggests Arsenal might be in the pole position to sign Merino as they can cough up significant sums to secure his services. However, the 28-year-old Spanish international prefers a move to Barcelona, creating a window of opportunity for the Blaugrana.
