Arsenal and Real Sociedad are in advanced discussions regarding the potential transfer of Mikel Merino. The player has already expressed his approval for the move to proceed, although the clubs have not yet reached an agreement. Before the deal can be finalized, a significant departure is necessary from Arsenal. Bitter rivals, Tottenham have unintentionally set up the ideal sale for Arsenal after buying Dominic Solanke.
Arsenal In Advanced Talks To Sign Merino
It’s not a secret that Arsenal wants 28-year-old Spanish Midfielder, Mikel Merino. Coach Mikel Arteta has long admired the player. He is confident that his profile and recent progress align perfectly with Arsenal. Merino played for Spain in the UEFA Euro 2024 championship win. Most notably, he scored the game-winning goal in extra time in the quarterfinal match against Germany.
Merino has declined two contract renewal offers from Real Sociedad. The Basque club is aware of the urgency to secure a transfer for him this summer, to prevent losing him on a free transfer next year. According to ESPN, the main hurdle in finalizing the deal is the transfer fee. Real Sociedad would expect one of their star players to fetch at least €35 million ($38.6m). Arsenal feels that La Real’s asking price is excessive, considering Merino’s contract runs until 2025. Arsenal has reached an agreement on personal terms with a 28-year-old midfielder from Real Sociedad. A four-year contract has been finalized.
Arsenal To Line Up Major Sale Before Merino’s Transfer
As per Athletic’s David Ornstein, it is anticipated that Arsenal will complete a significant sale before Merino arrives in north London. He stated:
As was the case with Riccardo Calafiori, Arsenal are likely to want assurance of a significant departure before they can proceed to the final stages of any deal for Merino.
Calafiori’s transfer was finalized after Arsenal reached an agreement to sell Emile Smith Rowe to Fulham for £34m. It looks like a significant sale will also be pursued before Merino’s transfer. According to Ornstein, it seems that Eddie Nketiah is the most likely player to be replaced by Merino. Bournemouth is reportedly in discussions to acquire Eddie Nketiah as a potential replacement for Solanke.
Nketiah had previously agreed to personal terms with Marseille earlier this window. However, the French club ended their chase after Arsenal rejected a €27 million/£23 million bid. Marseille secured a deal to sign Elye Wahi from Lens instead. Wahi’s official presentation as a Marseille player took place on Tuesday. Fortunately for Arsenal who wants to sell Nketiah, Bournemouth is very much interested and is currently the top contender for his services.
