Arsenal are yet to make a formal approach to sign one of Real Sociedad’s best players, according to Spanish outlet El Diario Vasco.
The Gunners are aiming to sign a new midfielder during the current transfer window and they have reportedly agreed terms with Mikel Merino.
The club have not made a formal approach to sign him thus far, but it is only a ‘matter of time’ before he makes the switch to the Emirates Stadium.
The 28-year-old has a £52 million release clause in his contract, but the Gunners are aware that he could be prised away for £26m as he is in the final year of his deal.
MERINO COULD JOIN ARSENAL IN COMING DAYS
The London giants have had a quiet summer transfer window. They have made just two signings in the form of David Raya and Riccardo Calafiori.
A lot more was expected after the club finished second in the Premier League for the 2nd season running. In our opinion, there could be plenty of activity this month.
The club’s hierarchy recently made space and capital with Emile Smith Rowe’s move to Fulham and could now utilise the funds for the purchase of Merino from Sociedad.
The Spanish star has already given the green light for a transfer and the onus is on the Gunners to negotiate a suitable transfer fee to sign the Euro 2024 winner.
Merino would be a solid acquisition for the left-sided central midfield position. He won the most duels across Europe’s top-five leagues during the 2023/24 campaign.
He was also impressive with his recoveries, tackling and creativity in the final third. The ex-Newcastle United star registered eight goals and five assists last term.
Arsenal will need to speed up their pursuit as Merino has not ruled out a move to Barcelona.
