Arsenal’s interest in bringing Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino to England is the prime example of their selective transfer strategy. While the Gunners were unable to cross the Premier League finishing line over Manchester City, the Mikel Arteta-coached side did sign two valuable assets last season.
Given their success with Jorginho and Leandro Trossard, Arsenal’s interest in Mikel Merino must also be assessed. With Arteta eyeing to bring the Spaniard to London, it is evident the club is currently focusing on adding experience rather than high-profile football stars to the squad.
As per CBS Sports’ sources, the Gunners are big admirers of the Real Sociedad midfielder. However, a deal has yet to crystallise over the player’s transfer from Spain to England.
While Arsenal aren’t typically known to sign players over the age of 25, club coach Mikel Arteta has seemingly persuaded the board to make an exception for 28-year-old Mikel Merino.
The primary reason why the club’s officials are willing to consider this signing is the effectiveness of Jorginho and Leandro Trossard last season. The two experienced players prove to be shrewd additions for Arsenal even if they now boast a slightly lower resale value. The duo offered Arteta a blend of quality and experience off the bench. Hence, CBS sources have reported that the Gunners would now be looking to primarily focus on the squad’s depth of quality.
CBS Sports also suggests that Arsenal have kept a close watch on Real Sociedad. the former club of captain Martin Odegaard. They previously held their interests in midfielder Martin Zubimendi and left winger Ander Barrenetxea. However, after Zubimendi made it clear that he wasn’t leaving San Sebastian, Arsenal’s attention turned towards Mikel Merino. The ex-Newcastle midfielder is currently in the final year of his contract just like Jorginho and Leandro Trossard were before they signed with the Gunners.
Apart from Arsenal’s interest Barcelona and Atletico Madrid also showed their interest to sign Mikel Merino. Over the past six seasons, Mikel Merino has proven to be a vital asset for Real Sociedad. However, he could be on his way out of Spain in the ongoing transfer window.
Mikel Merino was a crucial asset for Spain in the Euro 2024. He scored the winning goal against Germany in the 119th minute of the quarterfinal. His contribution proved to be big as Spain ended up bagging a European crown for a record fourth time. Merino’s performance at the UEFA event reportedly drew Arsenal’s attention towards him.
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