Agreement in Principle with Merino
Arsenal have reached an agreement in principle with Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino for a four-year deal. The 28-year-old, who had an impressive season with Sociedad and contributed significantly to Spain’s Euro 2024 victory, is set to join Mikel Arteta’s squad. Barcelona officials believe Merino is prioritizing this move to Arsenal, adding urgency to the negotiations.
Transfer Market Activity
This development follows Arsenal’s recent signing of defender Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna. Calafiori, who can play both as a centre-back and left-back, has joined Arsenal on a five-year contract. Arsenal are still active in the transfer market, targeting additional players before the window closes. They are reportedly interested in Bayern Munich’s Leroy Sane and Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams, and are also in search of a new striker and winger.
Partey’s Uncertain Future
Arsenal’s pursuit of Merino is partly due to uncertainty surrounding Thomas Partey’s future at the club. The 31-year-old Ghanaian midfielder, who has had an injury-riddled season, is expected to be sold before the transfer deadline. With Partey in the final year of his contract and struggling with injuries, Arsenal’s focus has shifted to finding a suitable replacement.
Financial and Contractual Details
Real Sociedad are holding out for £25 million to sell Merino, aiming to make a £15 million profit from his transfer. Merino’s disciplinary record, including 14 yellow cards last season, may be a point of concern, but his overall contributions and versatility make him a valuable addition to Arsenal’s squad.