Based on reputed journalist Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal are able to advance with talks to signal Actual Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino this summer time.
The Gunners are on the verge of asserting the arrival of Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori. A brand new midfielder is their subsequent precedence and Romano experiences that the membership are ‘ready’ to step up talks with Merino’s camp subsequent week.
He added that Arsenal are ‘properly positioned’ to signal the skilled midfielder and Sociedad’s asking value could possibly be key. Supervisor Mikel Arteta ‘appreciates him’ and the membership might proceed with a suggestion after Emile Smith Rowe leaves.
High quality midfielder
Arsenal are near parting methods with Smith Rowe. The Gunners are in superior talks with Fulham over his switch and it could possibly be accomplished very quickly. His departure ought to unlock house and capital for the arrival of one other midfielder.
Merino has been recognized as the principle goal for Arteta and he might show a stable acquisition. The Spaniard has been a mainstay for Sociedad since becoming a member of them six years in the past. He has made near 250 appearances for the Basque outfit.
The 28-year-old can play wherever in midfield however prefers to function from central midfield. The left-footed star has distinctive defensive abilities. He made 6.4 recoveries and gained a surprising 10.2 duels per La Liga recreation final season.
Merino additionally registered 2.4 tackles per outing. He was likewise good within the last third with 13 aim contributions in all competitions. The Euro 2024 winner would supply robust competitors for the left central midfield position at Arsenal.
Sociedad have but to say their asking value for the Spaniard, however it has been reported that he could possibly be prised away for £25 million. For that price, he could be a shrewd signing, including the a lot depth and high quality within the squad.
Merino might not be a assured starter for the Gunners and he could possibly be rotated out and in of the beginning XI primarily based on the opposition. He could possibly be an efficient choice within the massive video games the place the membership require extra defensive assurance.
