It's been a slow start to the transfer window for the Gunners, but Mikel Arteta and his recruitment team are working in the background as they prepare for an assault on the market. Adding another midfielder could be one of their priorities with Emile Smith Rowe potentially heading out the door, and former Newcastle United midfielder Merino, who has been described as a 'monster' by analyst Ben Mattinson, is being eyed by the north London club.
Arsenal Preparing Move for Mikel Merino
They've held positive talks
Spain midfielder Mikel Merino celebrating
Italian reporter Romano has now said that Arsenal are preparing to advance in talks with the camp of Real Sociedad midfielder Merino in the next week after positive contacts. Arteta is a fan of the Spanish international, and as soon as Smith Rowe departs, the Gunners can proceed...
"Arsenal are prepared to advance in talks with Mikel Merino's camp next week, after positive contacts. He's not only name on list but well positioned; price tag requested by Real Sociedad will be key. Arteta appreciates him; as soon as ESR leaves, Arsenal can proceed."
Mikel Merino's statistics over the course of his club career
Club
Appearances
Goals
Assists
Yellow cards
Sent off
Real Sociedad
242
27
30
56
2
Osasuna
67
8
5
22
2
Newcastle United
25
1
1
4
0
Borussia Dortmund
9
0
0
1
0
The Gunners are closing in on the signing of Riccardo Calafiori, who has flown to England to undergo a medical at Arsenal. Merino could be next on the list for Arteta's recruitment team, with Arsenal showing they are not afraid to sign players of any age profile.
At the age of 28, Merino will have already reached his prime, but Arteta clearly wants to bring in players who are going to immediately make an impact on the senior squad. The north London club will be pushing for the Premier League title once again, so adding quality reinforcements will be crucial.
GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Mikel Merino was one of four members of the Spain squad to feature in every clash at Euro 2024, while he covered 28.1 kilometres over the course of 178 minutes on the pitch.
Arsenal sporting director Edu and boss Mikel Arteta
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Emile Smith Rowe Close to Joining Fulham
Arsenal are pushing for a replacement
Emile Smith Rowe warming up for Arsenal
According to The Athletic's David Ornstein, Fulham are closing in on the signing of Arsenal midfielder Emile Smith Rowe. A deal could be worth in the region of £35m, with the 23-year-old expected to undergo a medical and finalise personal terms.
Although Smith Rowe hasn't made a significant impact under Arteta in recent years, the Gunners will want to bring in an extra body in the middle of the park. It's a significant fee to receive for a player who hasn't been a regular for Arsenal, so replacing him with Merino could be a smart move.
All statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt and UEFA
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