Arsenal Closing in on Mikel Merino Signing After Riccardo Calafiori Deal

Arsenal are set to advance their interest in Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino after wrapping up the signing of Riccardo Calafiori, 90min understands.

The Gunners have been linked with Merino for some time, with manager Mikel Arteta driving the pursuit of the Spain international. Sources have told 90min that Arsenal will step up their interest in the coming days, with the club confident of securing a deal for the 28-year-old.

Merino was one of the stars of Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, despite mainly featuring from the bench. His performances have caught the eye of several clubs, but Arsenal are believed to be in pole position to secure his signature.

Arsenal to Sign Mikel Merino Next Week

The Gunners are expected to pay around £21m for Merino, who is entering the final year of his contract with Real Sociedad. The Spanish club are not optimistic of keeping hold of the midfielder, who has made 348 senior club appearances.

Arsenal’s interest in Merino pre-dates his summer exploits, with Arteta the driving force behind the pursuit. The Gunners are confident of his adaptability to the Premier League, having spent the 2017/18 season with Newcastle United.

With Calafiori’s move from Bologna set to be finalised following a medical this weekend, Arsenal will turn their attention to other reinforcements. Merino is seen as a long-term target and is expected to be the next addition to Arteta’s squad.

The Gunners face competition from Atletico Madrid for Merino’s signature, with Diego Simeone’s side also in the market for a midfielder. Barcelona are fond of the player, but they are working their way through other priorities in the summer market.

Merino is expected to sign a three-year contract with Arsenal, with the option of a further year. The midfielder is keen on a move to the Emirates and is set to become the club’s second signing of the summer window.