Over the past few weeks, the Spanish media have insisted that Arsenal are keen on signing Real Sociedad’s Mikel Merino this summer.
On Friday, Radio Marca Donostia stated Arsenal have reached an agreement in principle with the La Liga side for €35m.
The midfielder was part of Spain’s Euro 2024 winning squad. He was presented to La Real’s fans prior to their home defeat to Rayo Vallecano on Sunday.
After the tie, Real Sociedad manager Imanol Alguacil suggested a lack of sufficient options was one of the reasons for yesterday’s defeat. Noticias de Gipuzkoa relayed his comments, where he also responded to reports linking the 28-year-old to Arsenal.
The outlet claims he talked about Merino in a ‘nostalgic tone’, ‘practically assuming’ his move to the Emirates.
The manager insists Real Sociedad won’t be able to replace the former Newcastle United man and Robin Le Normand, the latter having already been sold to Atlético Madrid.
“It is clear that there are no two players like Le Normand and Merino, and Real will not be able to replace those players with the same level,” he said.
“And I won’t even tell you if Zubimendi had left. There’s a reason Arsenal want Merino and Liverpool were willing to pay Zubimendi’s clause.
“I’ve asked for reinforcements in all positions because if we can improve it will be good for the team. Now is not the time to get nervous, we are not 100% yet. We are Real Sociedad, what we have to do is work to be as happy at the end of the season as previous years.”
The Gunners now have to agree a deal with the San Sebastian club to get this deal over the line.
