Arsenal Agree Deal in Principle to Sign Mikel Merino

Arsenal have reached a deal in principle to acquire Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad for a total of up to £32.6 million. The agreement includes an initial fee of £28.4 million, with an additional £4.2 million in potential add-ons.

Merino, who is 28 years old, has less than a year remaining on his contract with the La Liga side. He was a key player for Spain in their Euro 2024 victory, participating in all seven matches and scoring a decisive goal against Germany in the quarter-final.

If completed, this transfer would be Arsenal's third signing of the transfer window, following the acquisitions of Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori and Spanish goalkeeper David Raya. Arsenal have exercised their option to permanently sign Raya from Brentford.

Merino, known for his ability to play as a deeper-lying midfielder, is expected to complement Declan Rice, who played a 'box-to-box' role at times last season. Merino will also add depth to Arsenal's midfield, competing with Rice, Jorginho, Thomas Partey, and Martin Ødegaard.

Previously, Merino has experience in the Premier League from his one-year stint at Newcastle before moving to Real Sociedad in 2018. During the 2019-20 season, he played alongside Ødegaard when the Norwegian was on loan from Real Madrid.

Last season, Merino made 45 appearances across all competitions, scoring eight goals. He has earned 28 caps for Spain.