Arsenal Reach Agreement to Sign Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad

Arsenal have agreed in principle to sign Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad for up to €38.5 million (£32.67 million). The deal includes an initial fee of €33.5 million (£28.43 million) with an additional €5 million (£4.24 million) in potential add-ons.

Merino, 28, was a key player for Spain in their Euro 2024 triumph, featuring in all seven matches and scoring a decisive late goal in the quarter-final against Germany. With less than a year left on his contract at Real Sociedad, Merino’s move to Arsenal would make him the club’s third signing of the transfer window, following the arrivals of Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori and Spanish goalkeeper David Raya, who was permanently signed from Brentford.

Merino is expected to bring versatility to Arsenal’s midfield, offering manager Mikel Arteta another option to complement players like Declan Rice, Jorginho, Thomas Partey, and Martin Odegaard. His ability to play as a deeper-lying midfielder could enhance Arsenal’s tactical flexibility.

Merino has prior Premier League experience from his time at Newcastle United before he joined Real Sociedad in 2018. At Sociedad, he played alongside Martin Odegaard during the 2019-20 season when the Norwegian was on loan from Real Madrid. Last season, Merino made 45 appearances across all competitions, scoring eight goals.