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Arsenal considering signing Mikel Merino this summer

By Ritayan Chatterjee on July 16, 2024

Arsenal are reportedly considering making a move to sign Real Sociedad star Mikel Merino this summer, as per The Telegraph.

It is an open secret that the Gunners are planning to sign a new midfielder before the end of this window with Thomas Partey’s future currently uncertain following his injury problems in recent years.

Bruno Guimaraes, Amadou Onana and Douglas Luiz were all mentioned as serious targets. However, while Luiz has joined Juventus, Onana is closing in on a move to Aston Villa.

Merino’s club colleague and compatriot, Martin Zubimendi, was seemingly also an option for the North London club, but it appears they are unlikely to sign him this summer.

However, Merino has started to emerge as the primary target in recent times. According to the report by The Telegraph, Arsenal are keen on signing the 28-year-old and could formalise their interest over the coming days.

Merino to Arsenal

Mikel Arteta’s side reportedly hold a long-term interest in him and following his impressive performances in the European Championship, the Gunners are now planning to step up their efforts to get this deal done.

The report says Arsenal haven’t signed a player as old as Merino in recent times but they are considering signing him due to the fact that a player of his qualities is set to be available in a cut-price deal with his current contract set to expire at the end of next season.

Real Sociedad reportedly want a fee of around £20m so it would be a bargain deal for Arsenal if they purchase him. However, The Telegraph states that Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are also plotting a swoop for him, therefore, Arteta’s side will have to beat the Spanish giants in this race to lure their key target at the Emirates Stadium this summer.

Merino has showcased his qualities in La Liga over the last few years and has previous experience playing in the Premier League with Newcastle United.

So, he could be a shrewd signing for Arsenal if they purchase him. However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the Emirates club can eventually manage to secure his signature in this transfer window to reinforce their engine room.