Arsenal have been given the latest major update in their attempt to finally tie Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino down to a contract as the Gunners try to bolster their ranks before Friday’s transfer window deadline.
The 28-year-old is set to arrive at the Emirates Stadium in a deal that will cost Mikel Arteta’s side around £31.5m, including add-ons, with Merino ready to pen a four-year deal with a one-year extension clause written in. It’s believed he first caught the attention of Arsenal after his impressive Euro 2024 tournament with winners Spain, as he played in every game for La Roja on their way to a record fourth European Championship title.
He also helped his club reach the knockout stages of the Champions League where they lost 4-1 on aggregate to Paris Saint-Germain, with Merino grabbing the only goal over both legs following his earlier contribution in their 3-1 group stage win over Benfica.
It’ll be his second stint in England having previously arrived at Newcastle United under Rafa Benitez back in 2017, where he spent two seasons. He ended up making 25 appearances for the Magpies before joining Sociedad on a permanent deal in July 2018.
