Mikel Merino is a wanted man in this window and approaches for the 28-year-old have been confirmed by Real Sociedad.
The Spaniard has been linked with moves away from the club following his eye-catching displays in the UEFA European Championship, where he scored a late winner to send the country into the semi-final at the expense of Germany.
Merino enjoyed a stunning season with Real Sociedad in 2023-24, where he helped them finished sixth on the log and secured a place in Europe next season.
He was also a vital part of the squad who finished top of their UEFA Champions League group ahead of Inter last season, but bowed out of the competition to PSG Paris Saint-German in the round of 16, scoring Sociedad’s only goal of the tie.
Mikel Merino is a man in demand
La Liga duo of Barcelona and Atlético Madrid have been linked with the former Borussia Dortmund man but of recent, it is Premier League club Arsenal that holds genuine interest in the player.
Multiple media outlets have reported that Mikel Arteta is willing to bring Merino to the Emirates and contact has been made with the player, who is also reported to be convinced of the Arsenal project.
Speaking in a recent interview, Real Sociedad President Jokin Apperribay confirmed their has been approaches to sign the player. “We are aware that Merino has offers, and we know them.“
The conversation with him and those around him has been very sincere and hopefully his decision is to stay, he already knows that we want him to stay.”
Mikel Merino has one year left on his current contract with the Anoeta club and after six year since joining from Newcastle United, it looks like a return to the Premier League is on the cards for the midfielder.
He is highly-rated for his abilities in duels and spot on tackles. Last season in the Spanish top-flight, Merino made 2.4 tackles per game, an avergae only bettered by four midfielders.
“He (Merino) has had a renewal offer for some time. And if not, we will try to negotiate the best way out for Real.” Jokin Apperribay continued.
Following the departure of Emile Smith Rowe, Arsenal is expected to push for Mikel Merino as second signing of the summer, having already secured the services of Riccardo Calafiori in a €40 million move from Bologna.
