The Gunners have seemingly been exploring the market to sign a new midfielder as they have been linked with numerous names with Martin Zubimendi, Joao Neves and Bruno Guimaraes being among them. But, Merino is starting to emerge as a new serious option in recent times.
The Spaniard has entered the final year of his current contract and hasn’t signed an extension with La Real yet. So, his future is currently hanging in balance at the Basque club.
According to the report by Football Transfers, the midfielder has decided to leave the club this summer and has already told his desire to Real Sociedad so the Spanish side are open to cashing-in on him.
The report further claims that Arsenal have expressed their interest in signing him and have already held talks with the player’s representatives over this deal.
Merino to Arsenal
The Gunners primarily wanted to sign Merino’s club teammate, Zubimendi, to strengthen the midfield department but during the meeting over him, Merino’s name came up.
So, with purchasing the 25-year-old looking unlikely at the moment, the North London club are now planning to accelerate their efforts to sign the 28-year-old.
Football Transfers also reports that Arsenal are ready to spend a fee of around £21m to sign the Spain international, therefore, he could be an affordable signing if they manage to secure his signature.
Merino is a highly-talented experienced player and could be able to perform straightaway if Arsenal purchase him this summer. However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the North London club eventually sign him in this transfer window to reinforce their engine room.
It has been reported that Barcelona are also contemplating making a move for him, therefore, it might not be easy for the Emirates club to get any potential deal done for him.
Meanwhile, after narrowly missing out on winning the Premier League title in back-to-back seasons, it remains to be seen whether they can finally win the title next season.
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