In a recent report, Noticias de Gipuzkoa claimed that Arsenal are well-placed to land Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino this summer. It has been stated that the Gunners are eager to recruit the Spain international this off-season.
Merino’s Impressive Record In Spanish Football
Merino had a solid campaign at the Spanish club as he managed to put in a string of impressive displays for them in the middle of the park. The 28-year-old scored eight times and picked up five assists in 45 matches for Real Sociedad last season on all fronts.
The Spanish sensation deserves a ton of credit for averaging 2.4 tackles, 0.5 interceptions, 1.7 clearances, 0.9 shots, 0.6 key passes and 0.8 dribbles per game in La Liga football. He even distributed possession relatively well based on his pass completion rate of 77.5% in league football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at Real Sociedad will run out next summer which could open the door for the Gunners to sign him on the cheap later this year.
Is Merino A Good Option For Arsenal?
Merino is a tough-tackling midfielder who can make some important interceptions for his team when he is playing well at the centre of the park. He usually clears the danger when the opposition are on the offensive.
The Spaniard can strike the ball well from long range and has got the vision to create a few promising chances for his teammates up top. He is a decent dribbler with the ball as well and did well to help his nation Spain win the UEFA Euro 2024 recently.
We can expect Merino to add more quality and depth to Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta‘s midfield department. He has what it takes to fight for a regular first-team spot at the Emirates Stadium next season. However, there are some serious concerns over whether the Spanish midfield ace can cope with the physical side and high intensity of Premier League football.
At 28, Merino is playing in his prime and could help the North London giants compete for a lot of major honours over the next few years. With all things considered, the Real Sociedad star would be an excellent option for Arteta to pursue this summer as he could help the Gunners compete for the Premier League title once again next season.
