Arsenal Real Madrid are reportedly leading the race to sign Real Sociedad star Mikel Merino this summer, according to Insider information about football.
The 28-year-old's future is currently uncertain at the Basque club as despite entering the final year of his current contract, he has not yet decided to renew it.
The midfielder is said to be willing to take the next step in his career, so he does not want to sign a renewal with Real. Because of this, speculation surrounding his future has continued to emerge in this transfer window.
Arsenal are reportedly considering signing a new midfielder and Merino has been suggested as a serious option. Therefore, it seems that the Gunners are looking to sign the Spaniard taking advantage of his current situation.
According to the report of Insider information about footballArsenal have begun working on a deal to sign Merino and the Spanish club are open to letting their star leave if they receive an offer of around £25m.
Merino joins Arsenal
The report further states that Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are also planning to sign the 28-year-old, however, Arsenal are currently in pole position in this race.
Merino has proven his qualities in La Liga in recent times and after that, he also showed his skills on the international stage, helping Spain win the European Championship.
He, who is 1.88 m tall, likes to play in the number eight position. He is dynamic, strong, good in the air, technically sound, can play with passes between the lines and is also efficient in defensive contributions.
Merino could therefore be an excellent signing for Arsenal if they manage to secure his signature, although it remains to be seen whether they ultimately decide to sign him to reinforce their midfield.
Meanwhile, after making David Raya's loan move permanent, Arsenal are close to completing a deal to sign Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna. The Italian is a talented defender and is likely to play at left-back in Arteta's system next season.
The North London club have spent a lot of money in the last two summer windows but have started slowly this summer and it remains to be seen how much they will ultimately spend before the end of this window to strengthen the squad.
