Arsenal‘s pursuit of Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino is heating up, with the player expected to be left out of the squad for their upcoming match against Rayo Vallecano this Sunday according to a report from Spain.
This move signals that negotiations between the two clubs are reaching a critical stage, with a resolution potentially imminent before the weekend’s fixture.
Merino, who has reportedly expressed his desire to join the Gunners, is eager to finalise the transfer. Real Sociedad, while understanding the player’s wishes, are holding firm on their valuation.
Arsenal’s initial offer of around €30 million was rejected, with the Spanish club reportedly seeking closer to €40 million for the 28-year-old midfielder. Merino’s current release clause stands at a hefty €60 million, a figure Arsenal are not going to meet. Marca are reporting a deal is likely to be struck around €35m (the total for fixed fee plus add-ons) and could be completed in the ‘next few days’.
They also write, “Arsenal have been targeting Merino since the end of last season, but it was not until last Wednesday, according to MARCA Donostia radio, that the final part of negotiations began, as Jokin Aperribay himself said that they would happen if the player asked for it, which was the case.”
Meanwhile, Radio Marca Donostia, via Sport Witness, report that “the operation has entered the decisive phase as Arsenal have reached an ‘agreement in principle’ with the Spanish club for €35m. There’s expectation for this deal to be closed this weekend.”
The midfielder’s contract situation adds another layer to the negotiations. With less than a year remaining on his current deal, he could potentially leave on a free transfer next summer. This puts pressure on Real Sociedad to secure a reasonable fee now, but they are also keen to avoid undervaluing a key player, especially after successfully convincing Martin Zubimendi to stay put amidst interest from Liverpool earlier this week.
The timing of Real Sociedad manager Imanol Alguacil‘s pre-match press conference, pushed back to Saturday from its usual Friday slot, further suggests that Merino’s future is up in the air. This delay will allow Alguacil to address the media once the squad for the Rayo Vallecano match has been announced and Merino’s potential absence confirmed.
Arsenal see Merino as a valuable addition to their midfield, providing depth and experience alongside the likes of Declan Rice, Jorginho, and Thomas Partey. The Spaniard’s ability to control the tempo of the game, contribute both defensively and offensively, and his imposing presence at set-pieces (standing at 6ft 2in) would make him a perfect fit for Mikel Arteta‘s system.
While negotiations are ongoing, Merino‘s expected exclusion from the squad suggests a deal could be close. Arsenal fans will be eagerly awaiting further developments, hoping to see the talented midfielder, who has already played in the Premier League during his time at Newcastle and shared the pitch with Odegaard during the latter’s loan spell at Sociedad, donning the red and white shirt soon.