The Spain international has been a key player for the La Liga outfit over the past six seasons, but he could move on in the current transfer window.
His present contract expires in the summer of 2025. Estadio Deportivo claim that Sociedad are prepared to sell him for £25 million if he does not renew.
Atletico are currently willing to pay around £17m which is well below Sociedad’s valuation.
Meanwhile, Barcelona are not in a position to enter the bidding battle as they continue to deal with Financial Fair Play restrictions placed by La Liga.
Hence, Arsenal are considered favourites to land Merino. It is claimed that manager Mikel Arteta has been advocating the Gunners to sign his compatriot.
Arteta’s side have turned their focus to Merino after long-term target and Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi made it clear that he is not leaving San Sebastian.
Merino would add quality and depth in midfield
The London giants currently have a strong midfield combination in the starting XI, but they are still lacking quality and competition from the substitutes’ bench.
Merino would provide exactly that for Arteta. He is a risk taker from the number eight role and has impressed with his ability to make regular forward passes.
The 28-year-old registered eight goals and five assists last season, but he also excelled defensively.
The Spaniard won a stunning 10.2 duels per appearance alongside 2.4 tackles and 6.2 recoveries. He also won 65 percent of his take-ons with 1.7 clearances.
Merino’s creativity, defensive skills and high work rate make him an ideal signing. He is not a strong ball passer, but makes up for it with his all-round game.
Arsenal have not closed the door on signing experienced players. Merino could be seen as someone who could be rotated in and out of the XI based on the opposition.
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