According to the Spanish newspaper El Diario Vasco, Arsenal has not yet made a formal offer to Real Sociedad for one of their top players, Mikel Merino.
Reports suggest that the Gunners have reached an agreement with Merino regarding the terms of a new midfielder they aim to sign during this transfer window.
Despite the lack of an official approach, it is believed to be only a matter of time before Merino moves to the Emirates Stadium.
Merino, 28, has a release clause in his contract allowing him to leave for £52 million. However, since he is in the final year of his contract, Arsenal is aware that he could be available for as low as £26 million. The possibility of Merino joining Arsenal in the coming days remains high.
This summer, Arsenal’s transfer activity has been relatively quiet, with only David Raya and Riccardo Calafiori joining the squad. After finishing second in the Premier League for two consecutive seasons, much more was expected from the club in the transfer market. Nonetheless, this month could see significant action.
The recent transfer of Emile Smith Rowe to Fulham has provided Arsenal with both the space and funds to pursue Merino. With the Spanish star reportedly approving the move, it is now up to Arsenal to negotiate a suitable transfer fee.
Acquiring Merino, who played a crucial role in Spain’s Euro 2024 victory, would be a strategic move for the Gunners.
Merino excelled in the 2023–2024 season, winning the most duels across Europe’s top five leagues. His defensive prowess, including recoveries and tackles, along with his creativity in the final third, made him a standout performer. The former Newcastle United player contributed eight goals and five assists last season.
However, with Merino not entirely ruling out a move to Barcelona, Arsenal must intensify their efforts to secure his signing.
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