Arsenal prepare to rival the La Liga giants to secure the signing of Mikel Merino

Arsenal They are in a battle with the giants of La Liga, Barcelona and Atlético de Madrid for the transfer of Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino, according to a Spanish publication, Sports world.

The 28-year-old had a brief stint Newcastle UnitedEdit before joining Sociedad in 2018. The Spaniard has become a revelation since moving to San Sebastián, becoming a key player for the club under Imanol Alguacil.

According Sports worldArsenal will face the La Liga giants (Barcelona, ​​who are “attentive” to their situation in Sociedad), as well as Atlético de Madrid, who are also following them closely.

The report adds that Arsenal are interested in the former Newcastle and Borussia Dortmund midfielder, and he is the only 'danger' for LaLiga clubs in the fight to secure the transfer of the Spanish international.

Merino's contract at the Reale Arena expires next summer and clubs could consider waiting until July 2025 to sign him for free or shell out the money to pay his Transfer market valuation of €50m (£42m).

Arsenal could thwart Barcelona's transfer for Merino

Merino played a pivotal role in Sociedad's 2023-24 campaign, featuring in 32 of the club's 38 La Liga games last season. His ability to dictate play from a deep midfield role, while also offering attacking outlets (with his eight goal contributions), makes him a suitable archetype for Mikel ArtetaArsenal's high-flying team.

Signing a player with the qualities and mold of Merino to partner Declan Rice in the pivot he could give the Gunners their version of a Rodri-Stones midfield pairing.

Merino is a versatile midfielder who excels in all facets of midfield battles and control. From passing to dueling and relentless pressing, the Spaniard excels magnificently and could form a solid partnership with Rice in midfield.

With reports revealing interest from Barcelona and Atlético, it remains to be seen if the 28-year-old fancy a return first division or remain in LaLiga where he has stood out in the last two seasons.