Arsenal reignite interest in £13.5m ‘superb’ passer, he’s the perfect No. 6 for Declan Rice

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Arsenal look set to strengthen their midfield this summer, and reports indicate that a move for Mikel Merino is in the works.

If Arsenal can agree a deal with Real Sociedad for Merino, they will be adding an experienced player capable of attacking the box whilst bringing physicality to the middle of the park.

Merino’s best position is perhaps in a box-to-box role, which was occupied by Declan Rice in the second half of last season. There is also a case to be made that if Thomas Partey departs, after another year of injury struggle, another number six could be a useful addition.

Arsenal have been linked with several options including Martin Zubimendi, but with Merino and Jorginho providing experience in midfield, they have reignited interest in a younger option.

Arsenal reignite interest in Boca Juniors midfielder Ezequiel Fernandez

It has been reported that Arsenal have reignited their interest in Boca Juniors midfield star Ezequiel Fernandez.

Arsenal were reportedly scouting Fernandez in the January transfer window, with the 22-year-old impressing for Boca over several seasons, helping them reach the Copa Libertadores final last year.

Porto are also interested, and their strong relationship with Boca, which saw them sign Alan Varela last year, could give them the upper hand.

Saudi Arabian side Al-Qadisiya have also bid for him. Fernandez has a release clause of around £13.5m, and he is currently representing Argentina at the Olympic Games.

Ezequiel Fernandez would be a good fit for Arsenal number-six role

Arsenal need a strong passer with good awareness and physicality at the base of midfield if Rice or Merino are to play as number eights.

Jorginho has everything but physicality, whilst Partey lacks consistent fitness. Fernandez would arrive as a player who can be moulded into the perfect option.

The midfielder has been described as a “superb” passer, with “fantastic vision & ability to scan the pitch.”

He would arrive as a player who may need time to adapt to European football, but he would bring a strong blend of tenacity and technical brilliance to the midfield, and could be the perfect foil for Rice and long-term replacement for Jorginho.