Mikel Merino could be an Arsenal player "in the coming days", with Real Sociedad already identifying his replacement.
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Arsenal closing in on Merino signingAnnouncement "in the coming days"28-year-old won Euro 2024 with SpainGettyWHAT HAPPENED?
Mikel Arteta is closing in on his next summer signing, according to Relevo, with Real Sociedad's Merino set to join the north London outfit. Arsenal have agreed a fee of €30 million (£25m/$32m) plus add-ons for the midfielder and the announcement will be made imminently.
The report continues by claiming Real Sociedad have moved quickly to bring in Merino's replacement, Carlos Soler of Paris Saint-Germain. The former Valencia man has struggled to make an impact during two seasons in France.
AdvertisementTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Merino's signing represents something of a coup for the Gunners. To sign a European Championship winner in their prime for €30m is great business, with Arsenal benefitting from the Spaniard having less than one year remaining on his Real Sociedad contract. Capable of playing as both a No.6 and a No.8, he will likely partner Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard – a former teammate at the Reale Arena – in the middle of the park.
Getty ImagesDID YOU KNOW?
At 6'2, Arsenal are adding another physical threat to their ranks. Indeed, Merino won more aerial duels (168) than any other player in Europe's top five leagues last season. He will follow in Arteta's footsteps by playing for both La Real and Arsenal.
WHAT NEXT FOR ARSENAL?
Merino looks set to join David Raya and Riccardo Calafiori among Arsenal's summer signings, but their fans would love to see a new striker brought in in the Gunners' attempts to knock Manchester City off their perch atop the Premier League.