Arsenal’s pursuit of Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino is reportedly nearing a successful conclusion, with sources indicating that the player has agreed to personal terms with the Gunners.

This development comes amid growing speculation surrounding Merino’s future at Real Sociedad, with the club actively seeking a replacement.

Merino, a key player for Real Sociedad and a recent European Championship winner with Spain, has garnered significant interest in this transfer window. Spanish reports suggest that he had offers from both Atlético de Madrid and FC Barcelona in LaLiga, but neither proposal matched what he was looking for. Atletico Madrid’s sporting project did not appeal to him, while Barcelona’s ongoing financial constraints hindered their pursuit.

Arsenal, under the guidance of Mikel Arteta, have now emerged as the clear frontrunners for Merino’s signature. Arteta reportedly views the 28-year-old midfielder as a crucial addition to his squad, aiming to strengthen the team’s midfield options for the upcoming Premier League campaign.

While an agreement with the player is reportedly in place, the deal still hinges on negotiations between Arsenal and Real Sociedad regarding the transfer fee. Reports indicate that the Spanish club is seeking a fee in the region of €25-30 million for Merino, who has one year remaining on his current contract.

Real Sociedad’s recent moves further suggest that they are preparing for Merino’s departure. The club is reportedly close to finalising a deal for Valencia’s Javi Guerra, a central midfielder, for a fee of €20 million plus bonuses.

Arsenal’s interest in Merino predates Euro 2024 but his impressive performances in the tournament solidified the club’s belief in his potential impact in the Premier League. With the signing of Riccardo Calafiori completed and the departure of Emile Smith Rowe imminent, Arsenal is expected to accelerate their efforts to secure Merino’s services in the coming days. The start of the new season is, after all, only a few weeks away now.

Should it happen, the signing of Mikel Merino would represent another significant coup for Arsenal this summer after landing Calafiori when both were made serious offers by European giants (and Tottenham). Calafiori turned down the chance to stay in Italy and join Juventus, while Tottenham, Chelsea and a host of others also made approaches.

Merino, as mentioned above, has reportedly rejected the chance to sign for Barcelona or Atletico Madrid and his technical ability, tactical awareness, and experience at the highest level would undoubtedly strengthen Arsenal’s midfield and provide Arteta with another valuable option in his quest for the Premier League title.