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Arsenal ‘main contenders’ to sign Mikel Merino this summer

By Ritayan Chatterjee on July 13, 2024

Arsenal are reportedly the ‘main contenders’ to sign Real Sociedad star Mikel Merino this summer, as per the Italian outlet Tutto Juve.

The 28-year-old’s future is currently uncertain at the Basque club as despite entering the final year of his current contract, he hasn’t decided to renew it. So, it appears the Gunners are looking to secure his signature in this transfer window by taking advantage of his current situation.

Tutto Juve has reported that Real Sociedad have decided to cash-in on their star man in fear of losing him for free next summer with Arsenal the ‘main contenders’ to purchase him.

The report further claims that Mikel Arteta is pushing hard to lure his compatriot to the Emirates Stadium so Merino is likely to be ‘on his way’ to Arsenal.

Additionally, the Italian outlet states that Real Sociedad want a fee of around £34m to sell the midfielder so the North London club can manage to sign their key player for an affordable price.

Merino to Arsenal

It has widely been reported that Arsenal are looking to reinforce their engine room by purchasing a new midfielder in this transfer window.

Numerous players have been mentioned as serious targets with Amadou Onana, Bruno Guimaraes and Joao Neves being among them, but Merino is now emerging as a serious option.

The Spaniard has been a talismanic figure for La Real in recent years and he has also showcased his qualities on the international stage in the European Championship.

Merino is a strong and dynamic midfielder, additionally, he is excellent with the ball at his feet. He has already proven his worth in a strong league like La Liga and has previous experience playing in the Premier League during his short stint with Newcastle United.

So, he would be a great coup for Arsenal if they purchase him. However, Barcelona are said to be keen on signing him as well, therefore, the North London club will have to beat the Blaugrana in this race to sign their key target.

It is going to be interesting to see whether the Emirates club can eventually manage to purchase the Spain international in this transfer window to reinforce their midfield department.