Mikel Arteta is keen to work with Mikel Merino (Image: Getty)
Mikel Merino has reportedly informed Real Sociedad that he is keen to leave the club this summer, amid interest from several clubs around Europe.
The Spain international has been shortlisted as Arsenal’s top midfield target and talks have been ongoing since the conclusion of Euro 2024, where Merino led his nation to victory and showcased why he is being pursued by the Gunners. However, a deal is still not in place at this stage.
Arsenal are expected to continue pushing for the midfielder, and Mikel Arteta’s side will be encouraged by the recent actions of the 28-year-old.
According to Spanish news outlet Diario, Merino has told the higher powers at Sociedad that he would like to leave the club in the hope that a move away from the Reale Arena will be facilitated in the final fortnight of the transfer window.
Merino’s contract with Sociedad expires next summer and he has shown no interest in penning a new deal with the club, despite a new bumper offer being on the table for a matter of weeks.
The former Newcastle ace hopes that the uncertainty surrounding his contract situation will force Sociedad to reluctantly negotiate with Arsenal, as well as his other suitors.
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Arsenal have been pursuing Mikel Merino since Euro 2024 (Image: Getty)
The Gunners remain in close contact with Merino, but Atletico Madrid have also tabled a £30million bid for the midfielder and Real Madrid have touched base with the playmaker to enquire about his situation.
Arsenal are yet to make an offer of their own but would be forced to trump Atletico’s offer if they are to get a deal over the line. Diego Simeone’s side are also pushing to sign Conor Gallagher from Chelsea but that transfer has recently been thrown into jeopardy.
Real Sociedad convinced Martin Zubimendi to snub Liverpool earlier this week (Image: Getty)
After selling Robin Le Normand to Atletico, Real Sociedad made it clear that they do not want to sell any more of their top talents. They successfully persuaded Martin Zubimendi, previously admired by Arsenal, to snub Liverpool in favour of committing his future to his boyhood club, and they will be hoping that Merino is also not swayed by the prospect of Premier League football.
It remains to be seen whether Arsenal will look to strike while the iron is hot following Merino’s exit plea to table a significant offer for the ex-Borussia Dortmund star or if they continue to bide their time in the closing stages of the transfer window.
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1935294/Arsenal-transfer-request-Mikel-Merino-Real-Sociedad