Arsenal ‘ramp up interest in Real Sociedad’s Mikel Merino’ – with Gunners hopes boosted by Liverpool’s failure to capture team-mate Martin Zubimendi

Arsenal are reportedly keen to sign Real Sociedad’s midfielder Mikel Merino after the player expressed his desire for a move.

The Euro 2024 winner with Spain has become a top target for several big clubs, especially after his decisive goal in the European Championship quarter-final against Germany.

However, Arsenal’s interest in Merino is believed to have started before the international tournament as the Gunners, particularly Mikel Arteta, are keen to add strength in depth to their midfield.

According to the Telegraph, Real Sociedad are open to selling the player to avoid losing him as a free agent in a year.

The reports come after Erreala convinced their defensive midfielder Martin Zubimendi to stay for the 2024-25 season.

The 28-year-old player is considering leaving the Spanish side, with only one year left on his contract

Mikel Arteta is particularly interested in the Spaniard’s transfer, aiming to add competition in midfield

Previously, Mail Sport reported that Zubimendi rejected several big clubs, such as Liverpool, Arsenal, and Bayern Munich.

Merino, 28, has one year left on his contract and is tempted to join the Premier League side.

According to reports, Arsenal’s sporting director Edu visited Spain this week to discuss the Spaniard’s potential move, and it seems that the player’s personal terms are not a problem.

Mikel Merino — a former team-mate of Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard — has experience in the Premier League from his time at Newcastle.

He later became a key player in Real Sociedad under coach Imanol Alguacil and featured in LaLiga’s Team of the Season in 2022-23.

Overall, he has made 242 appearances for Erreala, playing at least 40 games per season in the last three campaigns.

The former Borussia Dortmund and Osasuna player has scored 36 goals and provided 36 assists throughout his career.

Mikel Merino and Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard played together at Real Sociedad from 2019 to 2020 

Eddie Nketiah’s departure to Bournemouth could pave the way for Mikel Merino’s arrival at the Emirates 

Arsenal are also looking to sell players to balance the books, with the club bringing in Riccardo Calafiori while moving on Emile Smith Rowe to Fulham earlier this summer.

Eddie Nketiah’s desire to leave the Emirates could aid a deal for Merino, with the Englishman attracting interest from Bournemouth.

Losing their attacking star Dominic Solanke to Tottenham for £65m, the Cherries are looking for a replacement after their initial bid for Porto striker Evanilson was rejected.