Arsenal‘s pursuit of Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino has taken a new turn, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reporting that no formal offer has been made for the Spanish international.

The Gunners, who have secured the signing of defender Riccardo Calafiori, are now turning their attention to other midfield options.

According to Romano, Merino is on Arsenal‘s shortlist of midfield targets, and the club is expected to initiate formal contacts with potential candidates in the coming days. While initial approaches have been made with Merino‘s entourage, no concrete offer has been presented to Real Sociedad.

The situation surrounding Merino‘s potential move to Arsenal is further complicated by the club’s reported interest in PSG midfielder Fabian Ruiz. British journalist Duncan Castles has claimed that Arsenal is also exploring the possibility of signing Ruiz, who is seen as a viable alternative to Merino.

Real Sociedad, meanwhile, remains open to selling Merino if a suitable offer arrives. The club has reportedly set a price tag of €30 million for the 28-year-old midfielder, who has one year remaining on his contract. However, if no attractive offer materialises, Real Sociedad is prepared to let Merino‘s contract run out and lose him on a free transfer next summer.

Merino, who impressed during Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, is reportedly open to a move but has not yet made a final decision. He has been given a deadline of August 5th to return to Real Sociedad‘s training camp if no transfer is agreed upon before then.

The next few days will be crucial in determining Merino‘s future. Arsenal‘s decision to prioritise their pursuit of a midfielder after securing Calafiori‘s signature suggests that they are serious about strengthening their squad for the upcoming season. Whether Merino will be the chosen one remains to be seen, as the club continues to explore other options, including Fabian Ruiz.