Mikel Merino is reportedly still open to joining Barcelona in the summer transfer window despite his heavy links with Arsenal.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Mikel Merino is the subject of interest from Arsenal. Recent updates have suggested that the Gunners are closing in on signing the Real Sociedad midfielder. However, the Spanish international is also open to other moves, including Barcelona, with La Real demanding around €30 million to part ways with him in the summer transfer window.
Mikel Merino and his incredible rise
Mikel Merino has become one of the most highly sought-after midfielders in the world after making considerable progress in his stint with Real Sociedad thus far. The Spaniard has been with the Basque outfit since July 2018 and has gone from strength to strength in the last half a dozen years.
The 28-year-old has turned out nearly 250 times thus far for Real Sociedad while chipping in with 27 goals and 30 assists. However, Merino faces an uncertain future at the Reale Arena after entering the final 12 months of his contract with La Real. Such a situation has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs across Europe.
In addition, the Spanish international has piqued the attention of many bigwigs after his exploits in Spain’s triumphant UEFA Euro 2024 campaign. Arsenal and Barcelona are among Mikel Merino’s prospective suitors in the summer transfer window, with Real Sociedad demanding around €30 million to part ways with him.
Where will Merino ply his trade next season?
Arsenal’s interest in Mikel Merino is understandable. The Gunners are keen on bolstering their midfield department in the summer transfer window amid uncertainties surrounding the long-term future of Thomas Partey. Recent reports have claimed that Arsenal and Real Sociedad sealed an agreement on the value of the package.
However, Mundo Deportivo has claimed that the two clubs do not have an agreement, giving other suitors, including Barcelona, the chance to sign him. In addition, Merino is open to joining the Blaugrana in the summer transfer window. With Barcelona keen on finding the long-sought successor to Sergio Busquets, the Spaniard is a viable target.
However, it is unclear if Barcelona will cough up €30 million to secure Mikel Merino’s services in the summer transfer window. Meanwhile, Arsenal might hope to seal the deal to sign the 28-year-old Spanish international before other suitors steal a march.
