One ‘perfect’ factor has convinced Mikel Merino to snub Barcelona and Atletico Madrid for Arsenal

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Arsenal are winning the reace to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino, and they are beating off stiff competition for his signature.

Merino has been identified by Mikel Arteta as a midfielder who can strengthen his options in the middle of the park, bringing a strong ball-winning ability as well as leadership and experience.

The 28-year-old is also wanted by La Liga sides Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, and having returned to Spain after a brief spell in the Premier League at Newcastle earlier on in his career, the Spain international could have been tempted to remain in his home country.

However, it now appears that he is more keen on a move to Arsenal over both Spanish giants, and for one key reason.

Mikel Merino has chosen Arsenal move because of Mikel Arteta

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Fabrizio Romano revealed that Merino prefers a move to Arsenal over Atletico Madrid and Barcelona because it is believed that Mikel Arteta is the perfect manager for him.

“Atletico Madrid also had Mikel Merino of Real Sociedad on their list. Atletico and Barcelona are still thinking of Merino but they feel he is giving total priority to Arsenal,” he stated.

“He’s on the shortlist of Arsenal, he’s high up the shortlist. It could happen soon. Arsenal are having a very positive conversation on the player’s side. He’s very tempted by Mikel Arteta, who’s considered the perfect coach for him.

“Merino to Arsenal remains a topic but we’re still waiting on concrete talks club to club.”

Mikel Arteta has drawn another top class player to Arsenal

Merino could become Arsenal’s second signing of the summer, after Arteta convinced Italy star Riccardo Calafiori to leave Serie A and move to North London despite interest from Juventus.

Arteta has been instrumental in Arsenal’s excellent recruitment in recent years, and it is clear that players across Europe are keen to develop under him whilst challenging for major honours.

Arteta has gotten the best out of box to box midfielders Granit Xhaka and Declan Rice, and Merino may see this as an opportunity to further improve his own game.

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

Arsenal are now an attractive club to play at, with Arteta a key reason why top-quality talents are joining, Calafiori reportedly joined on the basis that the Spaniard has a long-term future at the club planned, and Merino is clearly eager to work with his compatriot.