Arsenal is reportedly close to finalizing the signing of Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad.
The Gunners have been actively searching for a new midfielder this summer and have recently intensified their efforts to bolster that position.
Arsenal are closing in on Mikel Merino deal as verbal agreement is now getting closer!
Football transfer expert, Fabrizio Romano, said an agreement on personal terms between Arsenal and Merino is in place, with only the transfer fee left to negotiate.
“Agreement in place on personal terms as Merino wants the move. Verbal discussions with Real Sociedad for package in excess of €30m, talks on to get the deal done,” Romania said
Last week, reports revealed that Arsenal’s interest in Merino would increase following Riccardo Calafiori’s confirmed arrival from Bologna.
Real Sociedad aims to secure a deal exceeding £25m for Merino, who is in the last year of his contract in the Basque Country. The two clubs are currently engaged in verbal discussions.
Merino, who recently delivered a standout performance for Spain off the bench during their Euro 2024 triumph, scored the decisive goal in the final minute of their extra-time win against Germany in the quarter-finals.
He has been capped 28 times by La Roja at the senior level.
The 28-year-old has been with Real Sociedad since 2018, joining from Newcastle United, and has made an impressive 242 appearances for La Reale.
It was learnt that Arsenal is particularly attracted to his extensive experience.
While Merino’s club and country teammate, Martin Zubimendi, has been linked with Arsenal, Manchester United, and Liverpool, he remains committed to staying at Real Sociedad.
This summer, Arsenal has already made three senior signings, including making David Raya’s loan from Brentford permanent, acquiring Calafiori, and signing young goalkeeper Tommy Setford.
