For example, according to Squawka, the 28-year-old dynamo won a staggering 326 duels last season, which is an impressive number regardless of context. However, it's made all the more remarkable considering no other player in Europe's top seven leagues could even win 300 duels, leaving the Spaniard in a league of his own.
Now imagine if the Gunners' mercurial captain could focus all his attention on what is happening ahead of him, safe in the knowledge that he has the continent's preeminent duel winner behind him to snuff out any potential counter-attacks; he'd be free to create to his heart's content.
However, it's not just in defence that the 6 foot 2 "monster", as dubbed by data analyst Ben Mattinson, could be of use to the Norwegian.
In 45 appearances last season, he scored eight goals and provided five assists, meaning he averaged a goal involvement every 3.46 games, an impressive record for a player starting in central and defensive midfield.
So, if he can be that dangerous for a team that finished sixth in La Liga, imagine what he could do for a side fighting for a Premier League title and in a midfield alongside a player like Odegaard.
Merino's 23/24
Competitions
La Liga
Champions League
Copa de Rey
Appearances
32
7
6
Goals
5
2
1
Assists
3
1
1
Goal Involvements per Match
0.25
0.42
0.33
All Stats via Transfermarkt
Ultimately, while Merino is that little bit older than the typical Arsenal signing in recent seasons, he's clearly someone who could add a great deal of quality in both defence and attack and, for the reported price tag, Edu and Co must ensure he makes his way to the Emirates in the coming weeks.
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