Arsenal close to signing Euro 2024 star as Mikel Arteta looks to bolster squad - Reports

Arsenal are set to strengthen their midfield with the potential signing of Mikel Merino. According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, a deal between Real Sociedad and the English club is reportedly close.

Merino, who won the 2024 Euro with Spain, has not been included in La Real’s squad for their La Liga opener against Rayo Vallecano on Sunday, August 18. The absence is a possible indication of the 28-year-old midfielder nearing a move to the Gunners.

Mikel Arteta has shown interest in Merino, with Arsenal keen on him since the Euro concluded. However, negotiations over the past few weeks had stalled due to Real Sociedad’s firm stance on the asking price.

With Merino only having one year remaining on his contract and reportedly eager for the move, both clubs are motivated to finalize the deal.

According to Romano, the two clubs are currently discussing potential add-ons and the structure of the agreement, with a resolution possibly reached by the end of the week.

"It’s how to structure this fee – so in terms of add-ons, in terms of payment terms – so there is still some work to do on the structure of the deal. But, the fee they have in mind, Real Sociedad and Arsenal, is quite okay. So, the deal is progressing well. Arsenal are working on it, it could be an important weekend to advance for Merino," Romano said (via the Boot Room).

Merino has Premier League experience with Newcastle United. However, his time there was brief as he lasted only one season before joining Real Sociedad in 2018. Since then, he has become a key player for the La Liga outfit, registering 27 goals and 30 assists in 242 appearances across competitions. The midfielder has also 28 caps for Spain.

Mikel Arteta pleased with Arsenal’s performance against Wolves

Arsenal began their Premier League campaign with a convincing 2-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanders on Saturday, August 17. While they faced some struggles, goals in either half from Kai Havertz (25’) and Bukayo Saka (74’) secured a winning start for the Gunners at the Emirates.

Mikel Arteta was pleased with the performance and believes Arsenal have carried their pre-season momentum into the new Premier League campaign.

“I am really happy. With the first game you have some uncertainty in how you will respond. We had our moment after 1-0 when we were not in control but after Saka’s goal we were much more comfortable. The way the boys go about their job is unbelievable, so very happy," Arteta said (via footballlondon).

“We knew Wolves could change the game and they did in the second half but with our changes we became a bit stronger. We certainly are. We had a really good pre-season. There are things to improve for sure, but overall very happy," he added,

The Gunners will next face Aston Villa on August 24.