Arsenal’s plans to sign Mikel Merino (Real Sociedad) have been revealed.
The Gunners were the first to sign goalkeeper David Luiz outright after the summer transfer window opened. The Gunners then bolstered their defense on Tuesday with the arrival of Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna, who can play both center back and left back.
Arsenal are also on the hunt for a midfielder. They are looking for a partner for Declan Rice and have identified Merino as their top target. The Spaniard is very skilled on the ball and uses his precise left-footed passing to set up attacks. He is a composed player in the center of the pitch and uses his length to compete for aerial balls and cover defenses.
Merino joined Sociedad in the 2018-19 season after spells at Dortmund and Newcastle. He quickly established himself as a key player for the team and scored two goals in 32 Spanish Primera Liga appearances this season. Most recently, Merino represented Spain at the UEFA European Football Championship (Paid) 2024, where he played seven games and helped Spain win the tournament.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was impressed with Merino’s abilities and made a move to sign him. With Barcelona also wanting Merino, Arsenal 안전놀이터 had the upper hand. “Merino has rejected a move to Barcelona and wants Arsenal,” explained Spain’s Sport.
The Gunners, who have already held talks with Merino’s representatives about a move, also have a specific plan for the player. “Arsenal will make a move for Merino as soon as the sale of Emile Smith Rowe is finalized,” reports Football Transfer.
Arsenal have decided to sell successful youth player Smith Rowe and are currently in talks with Fulham. The Gunners have agreed to sell Smith Rowe for £35 million and are currently finalizing the deal. Once Arsenal sell Smith Rowe and secure the transfer fee, they will look to reinvest the money in the signing of Merino.
According to local reports, Sociedad want €33 million for Merino.