Mikel Merino has been left out of Real Sociedad’s squad for the clash with Rayo Vallecano this weekend as he continues talks with Arsenal.
That’s according to Marca and AS, who cover the situation today, with El Diario Vasco also covering comments on the matter from Sociedad manager Imanol Alguacil.
Marca report that Merino has been left out of the squad for the clash with Rayo on Sunday as he is ‘close to leaving for Arsenal’. Reports yesterday indicated that the Gunners had finally reached an agreement in principle after weeks of negotiations.
AS add a little more after also confirming that Merino is out of the picture as he is ‘waiting to sign for Arsenal’.
According to their information, Merino’s absence from the squad makes it ‘clear that his transfer to Arsenal is a matter of hours’.
They add that both clubs are trying to close the agreement and there could even be white smoke sent up at some point this weekend.
Arsenal are currently offering €30m fixed and €5m in variable but Real Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay is asking for €40m. It seems there is a growing confidence that deal will be struck at some point soon.
His absence certainly hints at that happening as do the latest comments from Alguacil, who confirmed why he’s left him out.
“(I’ve left out players who) are in talks with other teams,” he said regarding Merino and Carlos Fernández.
“If it were up to him (Merino), he would be on the pitch, but I’m leaving him out. I think it’s the best thing for everyone. During the week we worked thinking that he would be with the group and at the last minute I decided to leave him out.
“You know Merino, he was there to help. At the moment he is with us, at the moment he hasn’t left. I don’t know what will happen, although I know what he wants, but we don’t know because the market is what it is. Tomorrow he will help Real to win, but off the pitch.”
