Arteta to ‘abandon’ transfer policy as Arsenal ‘reach out’ to Barcelona target who won Euro 2024

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Arsenal are now set to go head-to-head with Barcelona over the signature of one Euro 2024 winner. 

With Euro 2024 now over, with Spain having beaten England in the final on Sunday evening, the transfer market is expected to pick up pace. Arsenal will certainly look to conduct some significant business in this window. 

Mikel Arteta is keen to strengthen his squad in several key areas. The Gunners are already working on a deal for Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori.

Signing a midfielder also remains a top priority for Arsenal. The North London club lack depth in this part of the pitch, beyond Declan Rice. Mohamed Elneny has left the club, Jorginho is in the latter stages of his career and cannot start games week in, week out, and Arteta is keen to move on Thomas Partey. 

When it comes to potential recruits in this part of the pitch, Mikel Merino is now a top target for the Gunners. However, the North London club will face a fight for his signature.

• READ MORE: Every player linked to and from Arsenal in the summer 2024 transfer window

Arsenal and Barcelona in race to sign Mikel Merino

According to TeamTalk, Arsenal have made contact with Merino, amid interest from Barcelona in the Real Sociedad star. Arsenal have “reached out” to begin negotiations, with Arteta having decided to “abandon” his usual transfer policy of focusing on young players. 

The 28-year-old is currently at the peak of his powers, and while he still has plenty of good years ahead of him, he already has plenty of experience under his belt. That includes experience of playing in the Premier League, having enjoyed a loan stint with Newcastle United earlier in his career.

Arsenal currently face a dearth of experience in their ranks, which may well explain Arteta’s willingness to invest in Merino.

Why Mikel Arteta wants Merino at Arsenal

If the midfielder were to come to the Emirates Stadium, he would arrive full of confidence, having just played a key role for Spain on their way to winning Euro 2024. He scored a last-gasp winner against Germany in the quarter-finals, and made it onto the pitch as a late substitute in the final itself.

Merino is very tidy in possession, works hard, is diligent in executing his defensive duties, and can make an impact at both ends of the pitch. If Arsenal can fend off Barcelona, then he would be a smart signing to make this summer.