Arsenal and Barcelona have been handed a boost in their pursuit of Mikel Merino, as he has turned down a move to Atletico Madrid.
According to a report from SPORT, Arsenal and Barcelona have received a major boost in their pursuit of Mikel Merino as the Real Sociedad star is open to a move to both clubs. While Atletico Madrid knocked on his door, he has turned down the opportunity to join Diego Simeone’s team.
Merino joined Real Sociedad back in 2018 from Newcastle United. He has only gone from strength to strength and has been an integral part of their first team over the years. The 28-year-old had an exceptional campaign last season as he scored eight goals and bagged five assists in his 45 appearances across competitions.
While La Real would love to have him around for a few more years, it seems he is all set for a move to a bigger club with his current contract running out in 2025. Multiple top clubs have been keeping a close eye on the Spanish international’s situation at Real Sociedad, and they are willing to battle for the services of the Euro 2024 winner.
Atletico Madrid are one of the clubs that want to add the midfield star to their ranks. While they did make a move to sign him, Mikel Merino is not interested in playing for them. He does not want to sign for them because he is not convinced by the sporting project they have presented to him.
Mikel Merino to Arsenal or Barcelona?
While Merino has turned down the opportunity to join Simeone’s team, he is open to a move to Barcelona as well as Arsenal. The Gunners want to add more quality to their midfield as they look to take the next step and end their wait for the Premier League title.
Meanwhile, the Catalan giants want to ensure they have enough depth and quality by bringing in Merino after struggling because of injuries to key players last season. The Blaugrana are willing to sign him in a deal worth around €30 million. But Barcelona do have a major threat in Arsenal, who are willing to pay the entire fee upfront, something that suits Real Sociedad.
However, Barcelona are still in the mix thanks to their president Joan Laporta’s relations with Real Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay. Despite Arsenal’s huge financial advantage, the Catalan giants seem to have time on their hands to sort out their financial struggles.
