Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino, a prime target for Arsenal this transfer window, is absent from Real Sociedad‘s squad traveling to Germany for their final pre-season friendly against FC Union Berlin.

This development has fuelled speculation that a move to the Emirates could be imminent.

While the official reason given for Merino’s absence is a “workload issue” or “slight overload” after returning from his summer holidays and participating in four training sessions, many believe this is a clear indication of his impending departure.

Spanish newspaper Noticias de Gipuzkoa highlights Merino’s absence as a “big one,” emphasising the significance of his omission from the squad. The report links Merino’s potential transfer to Arsenal’s ambition to build a squad capable of dethroning Manchester City under Mikel Arteta‘s guidance.

Various sources have indicated that negotiations between Arsenal and Real Sociedad for Merino are in advanced stages, with the player reportedly having already agreed to personal terms. However, the deal is yet to be finalised, with Arsenal yet to take the final decisive steps.

Meanwhile, another Real Sociedad midfielder, Martin Zubimendi, who has been linked with a move to Liverpool (after being heavily linked with Arsenal earlier in the summer), is included in the squad for the friendly against Union Berlin. This contrast further strengthens the notion that Merino’s absence is directly tied to the ongoing transfer discussions with Arsenal.