Arsenal remain in discussions with Real Sociedad as they attempt to thrash out a deal for Mikel Merino, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that Real Sociedad are trying to drive the midfielder’s price tag up, but Arsenal are determined to reach an agreement.
Merino has entered the final year of his contract in Spain, but his performances at Euro 2024 have allowed his club to demand a bumper price tag for his services.
He remains very keen on making the move to the Emirates this summer and all parties are expected to reach an agreement before 31 August.
Sources from the club say the Gunners could look to cash in on some fringe players before upping their bid for Merino as they look to keep their books balanced.
Merino joined Sociedad from Newcastle in 2018 and has made 242 appearances for the club, establishing himself as a key player in the middle of the park alongside Martin Zubimendi.
The Spanish outfit have seen both of their starting midfield players linked with moves to the Premier League as Liverpool had been pushing to sign Zubimendi.
Arteta is desperate to improve his squad given questions about Thomas Partey and Jorginho’s availability over the course of a season.
Merino emerged as a key target for the position after his Euro 2024 performances as he helped Spain lift the trophy, and the Gunners are determined to reach an agreement.
Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness told Football Insider that the Gunners are edging closer to a breach of the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules due to their high spending.
As a result, the Gunners could be forced to raise money through the sale of fringe players before they can meet Sociedad’s asking price for Merino.
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