HERE WE GO: Arsenal completed the acquisition of £43 million playmaker after the two clubs achieved agreement last night. Player will wear departed Smith Rowe jersey number. Finally done – welcome to Emirates.
Arsenal are focusing their efforts on acquiring Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad as their main midfield target, according to the Gipuzkoa edition of Mundo Deportivo. Reports indicate that Arsenal has extended a verbal offer valued at £26 million for Merino, though a formal bid has yet to be presented.
Despite Arsenal’s readiness to make a significant push for the Spanish international, Real Sociedad has not yet received an official offer from the club. Notably, Atletico Madrid is the only club that has made a formal proposal for Merino, which he subsequently declined.
Indications suggest that Arsenal is close to securing Merino’s services. The Gunners have already reached an agreement on personal terms with the player for a long-term contract. The recent signing of Luka Susic from Red Bull Salzburg by Sociedad, a left-footed central midfielder, hints at their preparation for Merino’s potential exit.
Arsenal, known for their focused approach on one deal at a time, might now intensify their pursuit of Merino following the completion of Emile Smith Rowe’s transfer to Fulham. Kieran Tierney has praised Merino, calling him “world-class” and commending his defensive capabilities and creative play.
Merino, who was part of Spain’s Euro 2024 winning squad, delivered a remarkable performance last season in La Liga. He averaged 10.2 duels won, 6.2 recoveries, and 2.4 tackles per game, along with nearly two clearances per match. Additionally, he contributed 13 goals, demonstrating his versatile skills and making him an ideal candidate for manager Mikel Arteta.
These statistics have been sourced from Transfermarkt.com and Sofascore.com.
