Arsenal are prepared to enter into advanced talks with the camp of Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino next week following positive responses after initial contacts, according to Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
The Gunners manager Mikel Arteta is a huge admirer of the Spain international, but he is not the only midfielder the North London club are keeping tabs on.
The imminent departure of
Emile Smith Rowe will also be crucial as Arsenal can proceed with their move for the Euro 2024 star once their academy graduate moves on.
Merino was one of the stars as Spain secured the European Championship a fortnight ago, featuring in seven games and bagging the winner in the 2-1 victory over Germany in the quarter-final.
The 28-year-old helped Sociedad finish sixth last term, scoring five goals and weighing in with three assists in 32 league games.
The Gunners want to bolster their options in the middle of the park ahead of 2024-25, and Merino fits the bill.
The former Newcastle United midfielder is a strong enforcer, with winning aerial duels, passing and tackling his major strengths.
He can play as a defensive midfielder and central midfielder due to his skillset, and having such a player within their ranks will help make Arsenal thick in midfield.
Whether Sociedad will be ready to play ball with the Gunners remains to be seen as losing their third captain and such an influential player will be a huge blow, and another transfer saga could be on the cards in the coming weeks.
