Arsenal interested in signing two La Liga stars valued at £69m | OneFootball

Arsenal are interested in signing Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino and Athletic Bilbao forward Nico Williams this summer, according to The Athletic.

The Gunners have had a quiet summer transfer window, making just one major signing. David Raya was recruited permanently from Brentford earlier this month.

The club have been locked in negotiations with Bologna for Riccardo Calafiori for the past 10 days, but have yet to finalise a payment structure with the Serie A outfit.

Arsenal are reportedly eyeing a new central midfielder. Merino is one of the top targets and could be signed on the cheap this summer.

His current deal with Sociedad expires in 2025. The La Liga club are widely expected to sanction his sale rather than risk losing him on a free transfer next year.

Arsenal could also pursue a deal for Williams if they decide to sign a wide player. However, a move won’t be straightforward.

Williams’ £49 million release clause will need to be paid in full while there is strong competition from Barcelona. The La Liga club’s financial restrictions could be lifted soon.

Arsenal would also need to sell players from their frontline to create space and finances for the Spanish winger, who could command a significant salary package.

Arsenal should pursue deals for Merino and Williams

Merino has been with Sociedad for six years and could be up for a new challenge.

He may feel he has unfinished business in the Premier League, having previously spent just one season with Newcastle United in 2017/18 before returning to La Liga.

Merino started his career as a holding midfielder, but he has operated from the number eight role at Sociedad. He won a stunning 10.2 duels per game last term.

He could be signed on the cheap, with Sociedad demanding £20m for his exit.

Meanwhile, Williams has all the hallmarks of becoming a world-class star. He had a brilliant season at Bilbao, bagging nine goals and 17 assists.

Williams went on to star for Spain at the 2024 European Championship with two goals and one assist from six appearances.

The 22-year-old can comfortably play on either wing. During the recent La Liga campaign, he won three take-ons per game.

He is already on a £168,000 per week salary and would command a significant hike for a transfer.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com, Capology.com & Sofascore.com.