Arsenal could be about to suffer huge Mikel Merino blow because of Liverpool

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There could be a new twist in Arsenal’s pursuit of Mikel Merino.

The Gunners are focusing on signing a new midfielder after turning David Raya’s loan into a permanent deal and bringing in Riccardo Calafiori to strengthen their defence.

Mikel Arteta is keen to bolster the middle of his park, and a number of names have been linked with a move to the Emirates in recent weeks.

Merino has been Arsenal’s top target, but the Gunners could end up missing out on the Spaniard’s signature because of a Premier League rival.

Liverpool could cost Arsenal the chance to sign Mikel Merino

Like Arsenal, Liverpool are also on the market for a new midfielder.

The Merseysiders are yet to make a single signing in this summer’s transfer window, but they are now set to make a big move.

Reports have claimed that Liverpool are pushing to sign former Arsenal target Martin Zubimendi.

The Spaniard has been on the radar of several big clubs, including Arsenal. Arteta has tried to sign Zubimendi in the past but failed.

Arsenal are not interested in Zubimendi in this window, but if Liverpool manage to get him, the Gunners’ chances of signing Merino could take a huge hit.

That’s because both Merino and Zubimendi play for the same club – Real Sociedad.

It would make no sense for the Spanish club to lose their two most important midfielders in the same window – albeit for a lot of money.

If Liverpool sign Zubimendi first, we won’t be surprised at all if Sociedad decide to reject all offers for Merino and keep him at the club, even if it means they will lose him for nothing in 2025.

READ MORE: Remembering when Mesut Ozil destroyed Arsenal target Mikel Merino

Arsenal could do one thing to annoy Liverpool

Arsenal’s need for a new midfielder is evident for everyone to see.

The Gunners released Mohamed Elneny, loaned out Albert Sambi Lokonga and have sold Emile Smith Rowe in this window. They need at least one new midfielder to provide sufficient cover.

Merino is the player Arsenal are targeting, but the Gunners should consider making an audacious attempt to hijack Liverpool’s move to sign Zubimendi.

If the Spaniard is open to leaving Sociedad, we’re sure Arsenal will be the more attractive option for him than Liverpool right now.

The Gunners are almost certain to challenge for the title, have a more settled squad and a manager who knows the Premier League well.

Zubimendi will cost much more than Merino, but if Arsenal can hijack Liverpool’s move to get him, it would be a huge statement of intent ahead of the start of the new season.