Arsenal’s pursuit of Real Sociedad star Mikel Merino has picked up pace as Barcelona have decided to step back from the race.
According to a report from SPORT, Arsenal have been handed a major boost in their pursuit of Mikel Merino as Barcelona have taken a back seat. The Gunners are looking to add more quality to their squad as they look to end their wait for the Premier League title.
The UEFA Euro 2024 winner could be an ideal addition to their midfield, with Thomas Partey’s future uncertain. He could form a great partnership with Declan Rice in the centre of the park providing them with a strong foundation.
Mikel Merino was been a consistent feature in the Real Sociedad starting XI since joining them back in 2018. While he remains an integral part of their squad, his future has been uncertain with his contract running out in 12 month’s time.
Atletico Madrid were one of the clubs keen on signing the 28-year-old. But their project wasn’t appealing enough to Merino. Even Real Sociedad did not want to sell him to the Colchoneros. With Diego Simeone’s team ruled out of the race, Arsenal and Barcelona were the leading candidates for his services.
Arsenal front-runners for Mikel Merino’s signature
It seems the Catalan giants have withdrawn from the race. They did want to add Mikel Merino to their ranks. But it seems their financial situation does allow them to push for the Real Sociedad star’s services. His arrival would have surely added a lot to their midfield, which did struggle last season because of injuries.
The only way Barcelona could have added the Spaniard to their ranks was by offloading Frenkie de Jong, and they have now ruled out that possibility. With the Blaugrana walking away from the race, Arsenal are now the front-runners.
The Gunners have been in talks to sign Mikel Merino. But, they are not going to find it easy as Real Sociedad have made a surprise attempt to extend his stay at the back. Earlier, they were not keen on meeting his demands with regard to a new deal. But, to everyone’s surprise, they have made a raised offer which does meet the player’s need.
Thanks to the new offer, Merino now has to decide between staying at Real Sociedad or moving to the Premier League for a new adventure. A move to Arsenal will give him an opportunity to win titles and compete in the UEFA Champions League.
