Spanish reports confirm that Mikel Merino is now an Arsenal player following two days of intense negotiations between Arsenal and Real Sociedad.

The deal was reportedly finalised at €33.5 million with an additional €5 million in variables.

Marca write, “Mikel Merino is no longer a Real Sociedad player but an Arsenal player after today”. The final agreement was reached during Real Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay’s trip to London on Thursday.

Merino, who hasn’t trained with Real Sociedad for two days, is now set to join Mikel Arteta’s squad at Arsenal.

Both clubs maintained firm positions throughout the negotiations, with Real Sociedad adamant about securing at least €40 million, considering Merino’s contributions to the club and Spain’s national team.

Arsenal, however, was hesitant to meet that price due to Merino’s contract nearing its end.

Despite the drawn-out negotiations, Merino’s desire to play for Arsenal and the club’s eagerness to finalise the transfer led to the deal’s conclusion.

Real Sociedad president Aperribay praised Merino’s professionalism during the process, noting his dedication to training until the final days of the deal’s completion when he was instructed not to train with the squad.

Merino’s departure leaves a gap in Real Sociedad’s midfield, but Marca say they are confident that players like Beñat Turrientes, Jon Ander Olasagasti, and new signings Luka Sucic and Sergio Gómez will step up.

Merino is believed to have signed a four year deal with Arsenal, with the club holding an option to extend it for another year should they so desire.