According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal is reportedly thinking about moving this summer to capture Real Sociedad star Mikel Merino.
To bolster their engine room, the Gunners are reportedly eager to add a new midfield player during this transfer season. Over the past few weeks, a number of names, including Amadou Onana, Martin Zubimendi, and Joao Neves, have been connected to a move to the Emirates Stadium. The Real Sociedad star, though, seems to be on their want list as well.
The Spaniard has not yet agreed to a contract extension with the Basque club, and he is approaching the end of his present deal. In light of this, Arsenal might be able to negotiate a low-cost deal for him before the upcoming campaign.
Romano has now revealed on Caught Offside that Arsenal has been keeping an eye on Merino’s performances over the past few months and that they are planning to sign him after being pleased with them.
The writer goes on to say that Arsenal believes Merino’s present contract position would make him an excellent market opportunity, and they may make a move this summer.
Merino to Arsenal 
Romano claims, nevertheless, that Barcelona is also interested in signing him and may make an effort to do so in order to bolster their midfield. In order to facilitate this transaction, Arsenal will need to defeat the Blaugrana in this race.
Romano claims, nevertheless, that Barcelona is also interested in signing him and may make an effort to do so in order to bolster their midfield. In order to facilitate this transaction, Arsenal will need to defeat the Blaugrana in this race.
Romano penned:
“Mikel Merino—a Spanish midfielder with a year remaining on his contract—is undoubtedly on Barcelona’s roster and is well-liked by all. Arsenal has also been keeping an eye on him since they see him as a nice market potential. Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta frequently monitors Real Sociedad. We’ll see what transpires; all alternatives are still open and it’s still early in this case.
According to earlier reports, Real Sociedad would be willing to cash in on Merino in order to recover a portion of the transfer fee—roughly £21 million.
Merino is a technically talented player who has become one of Real Sociedad’s most important players in recent years. Additionally, by scoring a late goal in extra time to help Spain defeat Germany in the European Championship quarterfinal, he cemented his spot in the Spanish national squad.
Therefore, if the North London club is able to get the 28-year-old during current transfer window, it would be a great addition to strengthen their engine room.