Arsenal Submit Formal Offer in ‘Last Few Hours’

August 14, 2024 DailyAFC Staff

Arsenal have intensified their pursuit of Real Sociedad’s midfielder Mikel Merino as they look to strengthen their squad before the summer transfer window closes.

Mikel Merino Arsenal transfer
Spain’s midfielder #06 Mikel Merino controls the ball during a training session at the team’s base camp in Donaueschingen, on July 10, 2024, during the UEFA Euro 2024 championship. (Photo by JAVIER SORIANO / AFP) (Photo by JAVIER SORIANO/AFP via Getty Images)

The Gunners are keen on bringing the 28-year-old Spaniard to the Emirates and are currently in negotiations with the La Liga side.

Mikel Merino, who has a £55 million release clause in his contract, is Arsenal’s latest target as they seek to bolster their midfield.

The Gunners, however, are looking to negotiate a fee lower than the release clause, given that Merino’s current deal with Real Sociedad expires in 2025.

Arsenal sporting director Edu has traveled to Spain this week to facilitate discussions and is optimistic about securing the midfielder’s signature.

Despite Real Sociedad’s efforts to extend Merino’s contract, they seem resigned to losing him, as his current contract has just 12 months remaining.

The player’s representatives have also made it clear that Merino is eager to join Arsenal, further strengthening the Gunners’ position in the negotiations.

Arsenal’s Ongoing Transfer Activity

The acquisition of Mikel Merino to Arsenal would add to the already active transfer window.

The club has made two significant signings this summer, bringing in Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna for £42 million and securing the permanent transfer of goalkeeper David Raya from Brentford.

While Arsenal are not expected to make any more signings after Merino, there could still be some departures.

Striker Eddie Nketiah, for instance, is reportedly close to joining AFC Bournemouth, who are looking to replace Dominic Solanke.

Transfer News: Arsenal Made Formal Offer for Mikel Mernio

Spanish media outlets have been closely monitoring the developments surrounding Merino’s potential move to Arsenal.

Recent reports indicate that Arsenal have officially opened talks with Real Sociedad and have made a formal offer for the midfielder.

However, the initial offer was rejected by the La Liga club. Despite this setback, Arsenal remain confident in their ability to finalize the deal, especially since Merino has given his approval to join the Gunners.

This approval could give Arsenal a crucial advantage in their efforts to lower the asking price for the Spanish international.

Merino, who has made 242 appearances for Real Sociedad and contributed 27 goals and 30 assists, is seen as an ideal fit for Mikel Arteta’s plans.

His ability to play forward passes, carry the ball up the field, and operate as a box-to-box midfielder makes him a valuable addition to the team as Arsenal look to compete at the highest level in the upcoming season.