Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

Wed 7 August 2024 20:00, UK

Arsenal are advancing in talks to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino before the transfer window closes, sources have told Football Insider.

A deal between the two clubs is expected to be done this month, with the 28-year-old said by sources to be “hugely admired” by Mikel Arteta.

The Spain international does have an offer to stay with Sociedad, but he’s keen on a move to the Emirates Stadium if an agreement can be reached.

Merino is entering the final year of his contract with the La Liga side, with a £20-25million price tag being placed on him.

Arsenal are also exploring other options in the midfield market too, as Arteta looks to bolster his squad ahead of the new campaign.

The Gunners are looking to go one step further this season in the Premier League as they prepare to mount another challenge to win the title.

Arsenal will gain an experienced midfielder in Mikel Merino

Merino would bring experience to the Arsenal midfield, having made 190 appearances in La Liga.

But he’s also got knowledge of the Premier League following his spell at Newcastle United where he made 24 appearances and scored one goal.

Arsenal do have competition in trying to land his signature though as Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are also monitoring him.

Sources have claimed that the Gunners are in pole position to secure the deal, with Barcelona’s financial issues being a stumbling block for them.

Arsenal are also in the transfer market for a number nine, and Arteta is believed to be a big fan of Man City’s Julian Alvarez.

A deal for the Argentina international is unlikely to happen, as Football Insider reported that City are unwilling to sell him to the Gunners.

In other news, Belgian duo make moves to sign Arsenal’s Butler-Oyedeji.

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