Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino has decided against a renewal with the Txuri-Urdin with just a year left on his deal, meaning he is likely to move on this summer. The 27-year-old is highly coveted, and his performances at Euro 2024 have only helped his stock.
Atletico Madrid are one of the sides interested in him, but with Merino asking them to wait for an answer, are reportedly making Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher their priority. On the other hand, Barcelona are also keen on Merino, but have focused all of their efforts on signing Nico Williams currently. Meanwhile an earlier report from MD also states that their is the potential for him to end up in the Bundesliga.
If Merino does not hold out for either of them, then it clears the way for Arsenal to move for him. Manager Mikel Arteta has reportedly contacted him earlier this summer, and a switch to the Emirates would see him reunited with Martin Odegaard. The same source says that after sealing a deal for Riccardo Calafiori and turning their attention to Merino, they have now sent an offer regarding personal terms to Merino. They are now weighing up how much to offer to Real Sociedad, but Merino is open to a move to London.
Capable of playing almost any role in midfield, his partnership with Martin Zubimendi has been a crucial factor in Real Sociedad’s success in recent years, and he has a rare mix of technical ability and physical prowess. Wherever he does end up, their fans will have plenty of reasons to smile.
