Arsenal move for ‘world-class’ £56m star is ‘imminent’, will watch his club in the stands – report | OneFootball

Arsenal are edging closer to signing their main midfield target, according to Mundo Deportivo.

The Gunners have identified Mikel Merino as their priority to bolster their midfield department and talks are ongoing with Real Sociedad to find a suitable agreement.

It was recently claimed that a £29.8 million deal could be finalised between the clubs and MD (page 14) report that a move seems ‘imminent’ for the Spain international.

Merino won’t be in the matchday squad for Sociedad’s La Liga opener against Rayo Vallecano. Instead, he will be in the stands watching the club before bidding farewell.

Arsenal could seal Merino transfer next week

The Gunners have been linked with Merino for the past month. They have recently made progress with formal talks with Sociedad. A final agreement is on the horizon.

The 28-year-old previously had a solitary season with Newcastle United in the Premier League. He showed glimpses of his quality, but was tempted to return to Spain.

He has racked almost 250 appearances during his time at Sociedad. The Spaniard is currently in the peak of his career and would be a quality acquisition for the Gunners.

Merino, who has been described as ‘world-class‘ by Kieran Tierney, won a stunning 10.2 duels per game last season alongside 2.4 tackles, 1.9 clearances and 6.2 recoveries.

He also managed 13 goal contributions for the La Liga outfit. Merino is known for his forward mindedness and should provide more creativity in the final third.

The Euro 2024 winner also possesses brilliant defensive awareness. His passing is decent but it should improve at Arsenal, who are a better possession-based side than Sociedad.

Sociedad has a £56 million release clause in his Sociedad contract. He is set to be signed for much less, considering he has entered the last year of his deal at the Basque outfit.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com