Arsenal 'in talks' over Mikel Merino transfer

Arsenal have continued in their pursuit to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino and are now in talks to settle a potential deal, according to a report.

The Gunners welcomed Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori to the Emirates Stadium in July, but have otherwise been relatively quiet in the transfer window. Mikel Arteta has remained keen on welcoming midfielder Merino to north London and the club could be edging closer to getting his signature.

According to The Athletic, Arsenal and Real Sociedad are in talks over a deal for Merino, with sporting director Edu in Spain to help secure an agreement. Arsenal remain confident in their ability to tempt the Spanish star to the Premier League, with personal terms expected to be settled easily.

The San Sebastian-based La Liga side are willing to let Merino go. He has just 12 months left on his current contract and is seemingly keen to join the Gunners in their fight for Premier League glory.

Merino's proposed move to Arsenal is set to be made easier after the departure of Hale End graduate Eddie Nketiah - who has been linked with a move to Bournemouth after talks with Ligue 1 side Marseille fell through. The Cherries are expected to make a move for the former England Under-21 striker after losing Dominic Solanke in a club record sale to Tottenham Hotspur this summer.

Arsenal operated in the same way to bring in Calafiori, ensuring Emile Smith-Rowe's move to Fulham was complete before the incoming transfer was signed off.

Merino couldalso be persuaded to remain at Real Sociedad, however, with his midfield partner Martin Zubimendi choosing to remain in Spain rather than move to Liverpool this week.

Arsenal kick off their 2024/25 Premier League campaign against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday, beginning their chase for a first Premier League title in over two decades.

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