According Fabricius Romano, Arsenal They are still in active talks to secure the signing of Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino this summer.
The London giants have already reached a personal agreement with the Spanish international and Roman Arsenal are now reportedly working on a payment structure for the midfielder.
Atletico Madrid and Barcelona They are also admirers of Merino, but the La Liga duo have been informed of the Spaniard's desire to join Arsenal in the current transfer window.
Merino has a release clause worth 60 million euros (£52 million) in his contract, but Arsenal are aiming to negotiate a fee of just over €25m (£21m) for the 28-year-old.
Matter of time
Arsenal made extensive use of the services of Declan Rice and Kai Havertz from last season's No. 8 spot. However, Rice could have more defensive duties next season with the arrival of Merino.
Merino has predominantly played as a central midfielder. He has been successful in that position thanks to his great aerial presence, his work rate and his ability to contribute to goals.
The Spaniard won the highest number of duels in Europe's top five leagues last season, but also won more than 6 recoveries per league game. His defensive skills would be suitable for the Premier League.
Merino, who is World class According to Kieran Tierney, he also has the ability to score and assist goals. He managed to be involved in 13 goals in the recent campaign, but could perform better at Arsenal with more creative players around him.
The Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta He could be seen as direct competition for Kai Havertz, but the pair could also play together if the latter is chosen to lead the attack ahead of Gabriel Jesus.
This is a real headache for the manager. Arsenal need more quality and depth in the squad if they want to go all the way and beat Manchester City To the league title.
The club have already made one quality signing in defender Riccardo Calafiori and Merino would be another welcome addition to the ranks ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
