Arsenal has reached an agreement with Real Sociedad to sign midfielder Mikel Merino. The deal is worth €38.5 million (£32.67 million), with an initial payment of €33.5 million (£28.43 million) and an additional €5 million (£4.24 million) based on performance. Merino has agreed to a four-year contract with Arsenal, with an option for an extra year. The transfer will be finalized once he passes a medical examination. Merino, 28, was eager to join Arsenal as he entered the final year of his contract with Sociedad.
Merino played a crucial role in Spain’s Euro 2024 victory, featuring in all their matches and scoring a late winner in the quarter-final against Germany. He has been with Real Sociedad for six years, making 242 appearances and winning the Copa del Rey in 2020. Before joining Sociedad, Merino spent a season at Newcastle United, where he played 14 Premier League matches under Rafael Benitez. He started his career at Osasuna and later moved to Borussia Dortmund in 2016. While at Dortmund, he won the DFB-Pokal under the management of Thomas Tuchel.
Arsenal is close to completing the signing of Merino, who has shown his quality at both club and international levels. His experience in La Liga and his recent success with Spain make him a valuable addition to Arsenal’s squad. Fans can look forward to seeing Merino bring his skills and experience to the Emirates Stadium. The deal highlights Arsenal’s ambition to strengthen their midfield as they prepare for the upcoming season. The club is now waiting for Merino to pass his medical and finalize the transfer.