Arsenal Football Club is on the verge of completing a significant double transfer, with one deal already finalized and another nearing completion.
The Gunners have confirmed the signing of Riccardo Calafiori, a defender from Bologna, and are now focused on acquiring Mikel Merino, a midfielder from Real Sociedad.
Reports from the Spanish news outlet, Noticias de Gipuzkoa, indicate that Merino’s transfer is imminent, especially after he was omitted from Sociedad’s squad for their match against Union Berlin.
The 28-year-old Spanish midfielder views Arsenal as his preferred destination and has already turned down an offer from Atletico Madrid, making Arsenal the frontrunner for his signature.
Arsenal has had a relatively quiet transfer window, with Calafiori being their only outfield acquisition so far. However, with the transfer deadline approaching, the club is expected to be more active, with the midfield position being a top priority.
Merino has reportedly agreed to personal terms on a long-term contract with Arsenal, leaving the club to finalize a suitable transfer deal with Sociedad.
Although Merino has a £52 million release clause, Sociedad might be willing to accept around £26 million, as the player is in the final year of his contract. Arsenal might try to lower the upfront payment by including add-ons, but a deal appears to be close to completion.
Merino, who has been praised as a “world-class” player by Arsenal’s Kieran Tierney, would be a valuable addition to the team. Last season, he demonstrated his quality by winning an impressive 10.2 duels per game, along with making 6.4 recoveries, 2.4 tackles, and 1.9 clearances per match. Additionally, Merino contributed to 13 goals throughout the season.
He primarily plays as a number eight and could be rotated with Kai Havertz in this role at Arsenal. The acquisition of Merino would strengthen Arsenal’s midfield significantly as they look to bolster their squad ahead of the upcoming season.
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