In spite of interest from elsewhere earlier in the transfer window, Mikel Merino now only has two options on the table this summer, according to a report.

Mikel Recalde reports for Noticias de Gipuzkoa that the current situation for Mikel Merino of Real Sociedad is that he either goes to Arsenal or sees out the final year of his contract with his current club.

Both possibilities are still on the table, and Real Sociedad executive Jokin Aperribay reportedly considers the latter option viable – planning to use that final year to try to convince the player to extend his contract.

But Arsenal are Merino’s preferred option for 2024/25. The Gunners reportedly fit his desires in terms of contract, style of play, and coaching. Mikel Arteta has seemingly already convinced the player of the London move.

Merino has a €65m release clause, but Real Sociedad are willing to lower their demands as they have a good relationship with the player, and they’ve promised him they won’t stand in his way if a good offer comes in.

The same outlet suggests initial contact has taken place for Merino’s transfer, but nothing official yet.

For the time being, Merino has returned to Real Sociedad’s training ground following his post-Euros holiday.

Fabrizio Romano suggested last week that Arsenal were “really, really close” to a €30m deal for Merino, but it’s not done yet.

If it goes through, Merino would be Arsenal’s fifth summer signing, having brought in David Raya from Brentford, Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna, and young goalkeepers Tommy Setford and Lucas Nygaard so far.