Arteta is convinced signing "underrated" player for Arsenal will help elevate one of his stars

Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino. The 28-year-old, who scored eight goals and registered five assists across 45 appearances in all competitions last season, also impressed at Euro 2024 and helped his native Spain to win the tournament.

Merino has attracted interest from Barcelona and Atletico Madrid in La Liga as well, but Romano claims both clubs are informed of the player's desire to make the move to Arsenal instead.

Mikel Merino

Now, another update has come to light, and specifically on Arteta's thoughts surrounding the former Newcastle star.

Arteta convinced Merino signing will help Declan Rice at Arsenal

According to GiveMeSport, Arteta is convinced signing Merino will help Rice in Arsenal's midfield, and could elevate the Englishman's performances to new heights.

The ex-Osasuna man's contract includes a £55 million release clause, but given it has just one season left to run, Arsenal are attempting to strike a deal for Merino at a much lesser price.

Declan Rice for Arsenal

Merino has already agreed personal terms on a move to Arsenal, so this transfer appears down to the clubs and whether they can iron out the financial details. TEAMtalks Football Analyst Ben Mattinson, writing via X, has also called Merino "underrated" for a while - also saying it is a surprise that he hadn't left Sociedad before this point.

"He’s so underrated to me," wrote Mattinson.

"No idea why he’s not been picked up by anyone. Rated him for a while since he’s been at Sociedad."