Arsenal are reportedly closing in on their big midfield target, Mikel Merino. The transfer saga is nearing its end.
Arsenal Agree Personal Terms With Mikel Merino
Mikel Merino Keen on Arsenal Transfer
Fabrizio Romano has reported that there is an agreement on personal terms between Arsenal and Merino. The Real Sociedad midfielder unsurprisingly “wants the move”. He’s now 28-years-old and has spent the past six seasons at the same club without breaking into the elusive top three.
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The Italian journalist reveals that a verbal agreement with the selling club is “now getting closer”. The deal will be worth over €30 million, taking the Gunners’ summer spending to over £90 million on three players.
How Can Real Sociedad Replace Him?
Merino has been an integral part of the side ever since he joined from Newcastle in 2018. Neutrals really began to understand his ability as he made important cameos for Spain as they won Euro 2024. He will be a big miss for Sociedad.
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Carlos Soler appears to be the replacement, as the club are in “advanced talks” to sign him from PSG. The two Spanish midfielders have a similar ability to drive forwards with the ball and play direct passes in transition. As Sociedad attempt to get their ideal replacement, the Merino deal may be sped up for financial reasons.
Will Mikel Merino Start in North London?
With Declan Rice holding down the defensive midfield with ease, and captain Martin Ødegaard an obvious starter, it may seem like Merino would not start straight away for Mikel Arteta. He already has two experienced players in Thomas Partey and Jorginho.
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However, the “silky” midfielder would slot perfectly into the lineup. He is the Granit Xhaka replacement that Arteta has been missing this past season. Similarly to the Swiss, he is left-footed and crucial to both ball retention and ball progression. This would allow Rice to play a deeper role as the Spaniard would link defence to attack through Arsenal’s rapid wingers.
