Mikel Merino has become a key target for Arsenal, but manager Mikel Arteta is encountering a significant challenge in securing the Real Sociedad midfielder. Arsenal’s pursuit of Merino has hit a late snag after Sociedad made a last-minute effort to retain him.
The Gunners were optimistic about signing Merino, who recently celebrated victory with Spain at Euro 2024. Reports indicated that he could be acquired for £25 million, as he is in the final year of his contract with Sociedad.
This availability made him an attractive option for Arteta, who has already bolstered his squad with the signings of Riccardo Calafiori and David Raya this summer. Despite the strong performances of Declan Rice last season, Arteta believes the midfield still needs additional talent.
However, the situation has become more complicated. Rather than facing competition from another club, Sociedad is striving to keep Merino in Spain. According to Noticias de Gipuzkoa, the club is in turmoil over the potential exits of both Merino and Martin Zubimendi, with fans expressing growing concerns.
To counter this, Sociedad’s management is determined to retain at least one of the players and is reportedly willing to spend significantly to do so, especially with Zubimendi’s £51 million release clause attracting Liverpool’s interest.
Club president Jokin Aperribay has cut short his holiday to take charge of the situation and explore options for keeping Merino. The midfielder has shown a desire to join Arsenal, but Sociedad is making every effort to keep him, including offering him a contract that would make him the highest-paid player at the club. However, this offer may come too late, as it does not match the financial package Merino would receive at Arsenal.
Despite these challenges, Arsenal remains hopeful that Merino’s transfer to the Emirates will still go ahead. Arteta is likely relieved to hear that the negotiations could still progress, especially since he acknowledges that the team needs further enhancements before the season begins.
Following their pre-season tour in the United States, Arteta remarked on the squad’s competitive spirit and the promising talent emerging from the academy, while also emphasizing the need for improvement in finishing scoring opportunities.
While Merino’s acquisition appears to be on the horizon, Arteta is also actively seeking a striker to address his team’s needs. With Eddie Nketiah likely to be loaned to Marseille with an obligation to buy, Arsenal will need to find a suitable replacement. Securing a proven goalscorer is essential for the Gunners as they aim to break their two-decade title drought.
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