Instead, Watts writes that he believes Mikel Merino is the Gunners’ primary target, expecting the club to step up their attempts to sign him now that the move to sign Riccardo Calafiori is done.
Arsenal reportedly identified Merino as a target before Euro 2024, and his cameos at the tournament convinced them of his potential to have an impact in the Premier League.
There is competition for Merino’s signature, including from the player’s own club. The Standard report that Sociedad are still hoping to convince the player to stay, with a new contract on the table.
Yet Sociedad are reportedly moving to sign a new midfielder of their own, implying that they aren’t particularly confident of Merino extending.
As for rival suitors, Fabrizio Romano reported this week that Atletico Madrid are pessimistic after failing to include the player in their deal for Robin Le Normand, and Barcelona have told Merino they’re currently focusing on other matters.
Merino made 45 appearances for Real Sociedad last season, scoring eight goals and assisting five. Mikel Arteta holds the player in high regard, and with Calafiori signed and Emile Smith Rowe on the verge of leaving, this deal could pick up speed soon.
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