In a recent report, Noticias de Gipuzkoa mentioned that Arsenal are preparing to launch a move for Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino. It has been claimed that the Gunners have agreed personal terms with the Spain international but are yet to make an official offer for him this summer.
Merino’s Impressive Form In Spanish Football
Merino had a decent campaign at the Spanish club after he put in a series of impressive displays at the heart of their midfield. The 28-year-old featured in 45 matches for Real Sociedad last season, netting eight goals and grabbing five assists on all fronts.
The Pamplona-born talent was a decent performer at both ends of the field based on his average of 2.4 tackles, 0.5 interceptions, 1.7 clearances, 0.9 shots and 0.8 dribbles per game in La Liga. He was even excellent when distributing the ball from midfield after making 77.5% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).
Merino is under contract at the Spanish club until the end of next season which could give the Gunners a chance to sign him on the cheap this month.
Should Arsenal Boss Mikel Arteta Get Merino On Board?
Merino is a solid tackler of the ball and can make some important interceptions for his team in the middle of the park. The Spaniard usually puts his foot through the ball when needed and can shoot the ball well from long range. He is a good dribbler with the ball as well and can chip in by scoring and creating his fair share of goals up top.
Merino helped his country win the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament in Germany earlier this summer which has raised his stock in European football. Hence, the Gunners would do well to bring him to the Emirates Stadium this summer.
Merino is primarily a box-to-box midfielder but can also serve as a holding midfielder if told to do so. We can expect him to enhance the quality of Mikel Arteta‘s match-day squad. At 28, Merino is playing in his prime and is on an expiring contract at Real Sociedad.
Thus, he would be a decent choice for the North London club to pursue this off-season. All in all, Arteta should focus on going all out to get Merino on board before the end of this transfer window.
