‘World-class’ star would be ‘delighted’ to join Arsenal after rejecting move to UCL giants – report | OneFootball

Arsenal are in the transfer market for a new midfielder and they have identified their priority target.

The club have already agreed personal terms with Real Sociedad’s Mikel Merino, but they have yet to represent a formal transfer bid to the La Liga outfit.

It is now reported that Merino would be ‘delighted’ to return to the Premier League with Arsenal. He has a ‘thorn in his side’ from his stint at Newcastle United.

Merino, who has been described as ‘world-class‘ by Kierney Tierney, had a solitary year with the Magpies. He feels he has unfinished business in English football.

Atletico Madrid have also expressed an interest in signing him, but he has turned them down.

Merino to Arsenal could be sealed soon

The Gunners recently parted ways with Emile Smith Rowe. The 24-year-old has joined Fulham with the view to playing regular first-team football in his career.

Merino is a different midfield profile compared to the Arsenal graduate, but the Spaniard would be an upgrade with his experience, defensive skills and creativity.

The Euro 2024 winner won a stunning 10.2 duels per game last term alongside 6.2 recoveries and 2.4 tackles. He also made close to two clearances on average.

He was likewise impressive in the final third with 13 goal contributions. At 28, he is in the prime of his career and would slot perfectly in the left central midfield role.

Merino could compete for places in the starting XI with Kai Havertz. He could start in games where the Gunners require additional defensive assurance in midfield.

They could start together as well if Havertz is chosen to lead the attack. The arrival of Merino would provide manager Mikel Arteta with quality depth and variation.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com