Mikel Merino transfer update reveals lengths Arsenal are going to finalise new signing

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Arsenal are looking to add the finishing touches to their squad before deadline day as the 2024/25 season fast approaches. 

So far, the only business in terms of arrivals at Arsenal is David Raya’s permanent move from Brentford and Riccardo Calafiori’s transfer from Bologna. 

Many are calling for further activity to happen in North London before deadline day, as the Gunners eye their first Premier League title since 2004. 

One target that Arsenal are understood to be chasing is Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino, with an update on the club’s pursuit now provided. 

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

Arsenal take next steps in bid to complete Mikel Merino transfer

Links between Arsenal and Merino have been around all summer, with talks failing to get close to the finalisation stage.

While it’s believed that the player is keen on making the move to the Emirates, there is a significant gap in valuation between the LaLiga side and the Gunners.

Sociedad want a price £4.2m higher than Arsenal’s offer of £25.7m, with plenty of work yet to be done to get the deal over the line.

Today, David Ornstein reported the steps that Arsenal are currently taking behind the scenes to ensure progress is finally made in the talks.

The Athletic journalist said that Arsenal are “stepping up” their efforts to sign Merino, with it coming to light that Edu has been in Spain this week in order to pursue an “agreement” between all parties. 

Added to his update, Ornstein predicted that the Gunners are likely to find themselves in a position where they need to offload a player in order to balance the books after striking a deal for Merino. 

Edu approach shows Arsenal’s desire to sign Merino

Edu and Mikel Arteta are clearly besotted by the idea of signing Merino, who could be the missing piece to the puzzle in Arsenal’s midfield. 

The Spaniard is vital to Sociedad alongside his engine room partner Martin Zubimendi, who is also in position to make the move to the Premier League as Liverpool eye his services.

As a result of the current situation that Sociedad face, it’s clear that Arsenal have to push exceptionally hard to have their transfer wish granted, with the understanding that Imanol Alguacil’s midfield will be dismantled.

Edu making a personal trip in order to convince the 28-year-old to make the move to the Emirates speaks volumes, with time being the only answer to the success of the Brazilian’s venture.