Arsenal are close to completing Mikel Merino deal. The EURO winning midfielder is entering the final year of his contract at Real Sociedad. The Gunners are keen to sign him. They are aiming to be good all over the pitch. Arteta’s men had a good 23/24 season. But, they were not able to win any major trophies. They would manage to win the FA Community Shield. But, they lost the Premier League title after being on top for quite some time. Man City beat them to the title in final few days. Their return to Europe was also great. Their journey would come to an end as Bayern Munich beat them in the quarter finals.
The Gunners have been very patient in the transfer window. But, now they are making some serious moves in the market. Firstly, they waited for the PSR-hit clubs to make their moves. Now, they are showing their true colors. They began with making David Raya deal permanent. Then, they bought Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna. Arsenal are now closing in on a deal for Mikel Merino. They are also looking to sign a top-class striker. Also, they have joined the race to sign Federico Chiesa from Juventus.
Arsenal finalizing Mikel Merino deal
As per footballespana.net, Real Sociedad are close to agreeing for a move. Arsenal have made a €30 million offer for Mikel Merino deal. Thomas Partey could be leaving the Gunners. The Spanish midfielder could be a great replacement for him. At the same time, he has been in good form in recent years. He played a big role in Spain’s road to EURO 2024 title. Also, he has prior experience in the Premier League. He used to play for Newcastle. As per transfermarkt.co.in, he has 72 G/A at the club level. Also, his set-piece taking abilities make him an event more valuable player.
But, Arsenal are not the only one wanting Mikel Merino deal. London Rivals Chelsea are also in the race for him. He also has options in Spain. Barcelona want to sign the 28-year-old. Atletico Madrid are also keen on the midfielder. But, as of now, it seems that he will be leaving for London. Emirates is the likely destination for him. Arteta was able to personally convince him for the move. On the other hand, Sociedad will have to sell. Else, the 28-year-old may not extend this summer. As a result, he could be leaving for free next year.
The perfect Xhaka replacement?
Arsenal completing Mikel Merino deal will be great for the team. Gabriel Martinelli was unable to find the net frequently last season. Since the Granit Xhaka left, he has not enjoyed much support on the left side. The Brazilian also did not get much clear chances in front of goal. He was also unable to run at the defenses freely as much as he would have wanted. He scored 15 times in 22/23 campaign. But, he was only able to score 8 times now. The Gunners signed Declan Rice. But, he plays in a different role. The 28-year-old Spaniard could become the new Xhaka. At the same time, he has won the most duels in Europe’s top 7 leagues in the 23/24 campaign.
Arsenal fans will be keen to see Mikel Merino deal go through. The midfielder will surely be a great addition to the squad. Arteta could also sign a top-class striker. The Gunners are also lurking around Chiesa. If they manage to secure all of their signings, they will surely be very tough to beat. They already have a young squad. This time, we may actually see them going all the way through to win some major titles.
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