Arsenal are nearing the signing of Real Sociedad’s star midfielder Mikel Merino, having submitted an initial offer of around €30 million.
According to a report from NOTICIAS DE GIPUZKOA, Arsenal are keen on reinforcing their midfield ahead of next season, and they have their eyes set on Mikel Merino. The Real Sociedad star has been on fire over the last 12 months, and the Gunners have already tabled a bid worth €30 million to prise him away from Spain.
Since joining them back in 2018, Merino seems to have grown in stature with every passing season. He has been a mainstay in their team and his ability to feature as a defensive midfielder as well as a touch further up the pitch has done wonders for Real Sociedad.
He had an exceptional season at club level and carried that form into UEFA Euro 2024, helping Spain win the continental tournament. While the 2023/24 season was exceptional for Merino, he seems all set for a major change ahead of next season.
With his contract running out in 12 months, the 28-year-old midfielder is keen on making a move away in search of a new challenge, and Real Sociedad might not be able to stand in his way.
Atletico Madrid and Barcelona were both keen on signing the Spanish international but he doesn’t want to join Diego Simeone’s team, while the Catalan giants cannot afford him at this stage with all the focus on Nico Williams.
Arsenal pushing to sign Merino, bid submitted
Since both Spanish giants have taken a back seat, Arsenal have been front-runners for some time now. After closing the signing of Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna, the Gunners want to strengthen their midfielder. They want a top-quality partner for Declan Rice to help them take the next step.
People at the North London club consider Merino to be an ideal fit as he can operate both as a defensive midfielder as well as a creator when needed. Arsenal want to complete the signing of the Real Sociedad star as soon as possible and they have already submitted their initial offer worth €30 million.
It will be interesting to see how Sociedad respond to the offer as recent reports suggest the two clubs are within touching distance of reaching an agreement for his transfer.