Arsenal have already secured the signing of Italian international Riccardo Calafiori and are now actively pursuing their next acquisition, with yet another player potentially on the way to the Emirates.
The Gunners are determined to bolster their squad further as they aim to dethrone Manchester City in the Premier League. After finishing just two points behind the reigning champions last season, Mikel Arteta’s side is keen to take the final step in the 2024/25 campaign.
Arsenal have reportedly initiated negotiations with Real Sociedad for the signing of Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino, who recently celebrated European Championship success with Spain. The 28-year-old has long been on Arteta’s radar, and there is optimism that a deal can be reached before the transfer window closes.
According to the Basque newspaper Noticias de Gipuzkoa, Arsenal’s sporting director Edu has traveled to Spain this week to accelerate the negotiations. The Gunners are confident that an agreement can be made, as Merino is reportedly eager to join Arteta’s squad in the Premier League. The midfielder is currently valued at €50 million (£42.9 million) by Transfermarkt.
Real Sociedad are bracing for Merino’s departure, given that he has just 12 months remaining on his contract. Although the Spanish club has offered him an extension, Merino’s representatives have made it clear that he is keen on a move to Arsenal.
In addition to Merino, Arsenal are also considering a move for Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia, according to Sport. Garcia, who recorded eight clean sheets and conceded just seven goals in 14 league games during Espanyol’s promotion campaign, could be seen as a potential replacement for Aaron Ramsdale. The Gunners might decide to proceed with this deal as they continue to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season.
