"Arsenal Eyeing Real Sociedad’s Mikel Merino"


 Arsenal are exploring a transfer for Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino, who was instrumental in Spain's Euro 2024 success. Merino's interest in the club began prior to the German competition, and his outstanding performances over the last month have helped to improve his profile. The 28-year-old midfielder appeared in all seven of Spain's games, often coming off the bench, and scored a dramatic late winner against Germany in the quarterfinals. Despite being older than Arsenal's typical transfer targets—whose average signing age over the last three years has been 24—Merino might be a good value purchase, with only one year left on his deal. He has previous experience in English football, having played for Newcastle United during the 2017-18 season.

Merino has been a reliable figure for Sociedad over the past six seasons, averaging over 30 league appearances per season. He is also a former teammate of Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard. If Arsenal increase their interest, Merino could strengthen the defensive positions and midfield. However, Arsenal are likely to face strong competition, with Barcelona and Atletico Madrid also reportedly interested. Spanish sources believe the club could demand around £20 million for Merino. Meanwhile, Arsenal are continuing negotiations with Bologna over Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori, whose transfer could cost around £45 million.

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