Arsenal appear to be edging closer to the signing of Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad, and there has now been a major development.
Mikel Arteta is keen to add Merino to his squad, but the Spain midfielder was also coveted by Barcelona. However, it now seems that Arsenal are closing in on their target.
Merino is of interest to both Arsenal and Barcelona given his physicality, experience and technical security in the middle of the park, with both teams aiming to add to their midfield.
It now appears that Merino has agreed a move to Arsenal with a deal nearing completion, and Barcelona had little say in the matter.
Arsenal agree personal terms with Mikel Merino
It has now been reported by Football Transfers that Arsenal have agreed personal terms with Mikel Merino, and a fee is set to be agreed between Arsenal and Real Sociedad.
Barcelona are struggling financially, and are focusing on a move for Arsenal target Nico Williams. This means that despite their interest in Merino, they cannot currently enter the race to sign him.
“Barcelona had no intention to make a move this summer, fully believing that the ex-Newcastle midfielder had his heart set on a move to the Emirates,” the report claimed.
Merino has now given his “green light” to an Arsenal move, and after the frustration of potentially losing out on Williams to Barcelona, Arteta will be delighted that a key target is set to join.
Why Barcelona did not move for Arsenal target Mikel Merino
Barcelona have long been credited with interest in Merino, and they are still keen on eventually adding a midfielder to their squad to replace the presence of Sergio Busquets.
Merino’s physicality and passing ability could have made him an ideal pivot option, but they chose to prioritise Williams instead.
Arsenal will hope that Merino can be the missing piece in their midfield alongside Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard, whom the Spaniard played with at Real Sociedad.
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