Mikel Merino to Arsenal Transfer: £25m Offer, Personal Terms Agreed, and Squad Omission

Arsenal is on the verge of completing a £25 million signing of Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad before the transfer window closes.

The midfielder, who shone during Euro 2024, has emerged as a key target for the Gunners as they seek to bolster their midfield ahead of the new season.

With uncertainties surrounding Thomas Partey’s future and Jorginho’s advancing age, Arsenal has prioritized strengthening this area of the squad.

While several players have been linked, Merino’s name has risen to the top of the list, and reports indicate that significant progress has been made toward finalizing the deal.

Squad Omission

Real Sociedad is set to face Union Berlin in a pre-season friendly, but Merino has not been included in the squad due to a slight strain and some discomfort. The club is opting not to risk the player in the match as negotiations continue.

Personal Terms Agreed

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Merino has already agreed to personal terms with Arsenal, paving the way for a deal to be finalized in the coming days. Although the midfielder was also linked with moves to Atletico Madrid and Barcelona, it appears Arsenal has secured his commitment.

Verbal Offer

Spanish journalist Matteo Moretto reports that Arsenal has submitted a verbal offer of €30 million (£25.7 million) for Merino. With just one year remaining on his contract with Sociedad, he is available at a favorable price.

Merino Wants to Leave

It has been reported that Merino has expressed his desire to leave Real Sociedad for a move to north London. Moretto adds that an agreement is close, with Arsenal being “one step” away from officially signing the 28-year-old midfielder.

As the transfer deadline approaches, Arsenal fans are eagerly anticipating the completion of this significant addition to the squad.