Arsenal in Talks with Real Sociedad Over Midfielder Mikel Merino

Arsenal are in discussions with Real Sociedad regarding the potential acquisition of Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino. Merino was a prominent member of Spain's Euro 2024-winning squad, featuring in all seven matches and scoring a decisive late goal against Germany in the quarter-finals.

The 28-year-old midfielder has under a year remaining on his current contract, which may assist Arsenal in securing a deal, as he will be eligible to negotiate a free transfer with other clubs starting in January.

Merino's teammate, Martin Zubimendi, recently declined a move to Liverpool after Real Sociedad persuaded him to stay with the club.

Should Merino join Arsenal, he would add a significant presence to the team's set pieces, complementing the earlier addition of Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori this summer.

Merino is capable of playing as a deeper-lying midfielder and could pair well with Declan Rice, who had a ‘box-to-box' role at times last season. Merino would offer Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta another option in the midfield, alongside Rice, Jorginho, Thomas Partey, and Martin Odegaard.

Previously, Merino played in the Premier League with Newcastle for one year before moving to Spain in 2018. He also played alongside Odegaard during the 2019-20 season when Odegaard was on loan at Sociedad from Real Madrid.

Last season, Merino made 45 appearances across all competitions and scored eight goals.

Arsenal have been active in the transfer market, including the sale of Emile Smith Rowe to Fulham for up to £34 million and the signing of Calafiori for approximately £42 million.

The future of striker Eddie Nketiah remains uncertain, with Marseille having shown interest, but no transfer has been finalized. Nketiah is also being monitored by Bournemouth and Crystal Palace, though no bids have been received.