Barcelona seriously worried that Arsenal will sign ‘the best player in La Liga’ this summer
Although they made an unsuccessful attempt to sign RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko, Arsenal aren’t thought to be set on signing a striker right now.
Sesko’s brief availability was seen as a market opportunity too good to turn down, rather than an essential signing.
And as a result of that pursuit ending with Sesko signing a new contract with Leipzig, Arsenal are exploring moves in other areas.
This summer will perhaps be concentrated on improving Arteta’s squad depth, which perhaps ultimately undermined the club’s title-push.
That being said, Arsenal could still welcome a marquee signing in central midfield, a number six to potentially replace Thomas Partey.
28-year-old Merino previously played for Newcastle United in the Premier League, leaving the club permanently for Sociedad in 2018.
Imanol Alguacil, Merino’s manager in Spain, declared the midfielder ‘the best player in La Liga’ a few seasons ago.
And although predominantly a number six, Merino is very versatile in the middle, explaining why he could be the perfect signing for Arteta.
Atletico de Madrid are also thought to be following Merino, however according to the report mentioned, it’s only Arsenal’s interest that is seen as a threat by Barcelona.
Merino has yet to be linked with Arsenal in the English press, but the signing would make a lot of sense as mentioned.
Perhaps most Arsenal fans imagine that the club will seek a slightly younger alternative, perhaps even Merino’s Sociedad teammate, 25-year-old Martin Zubimendi.
However, Zubimendi is thought to be stalling on a Sociedad exit, content at his boyhood club.
Arsenal could also face fierce competition for Xavi Simons this summer
Although Barcelona fear Arsenal’s involvement for Merino in this incident, the Gunners may now be worried about the level of competition to sign Xavi Simons this summer too.
