Official: Arsenal announce the signing of Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad | OneFootball

Rumours of Real Sociedad star Mikel Merino making the switch from San Sebastian to North London have rumbled on for what has felt like the entire summer transfer window.

Finally, on Tuesday afternoon, Arsenal made the move official, announcing the signing of the 28-year-old on their social media channels, ending weeks of speculation.

The midfielder joins the club in a deal worth around €32 million, on a four-year contract with an option to extend for a further year.

The Spaniard will wear the number 23 for the club, which was most recently worn by Albert Sambi Lokonga, who has moved to Sevilla on loan.

The number 23 has also been worn by names such as David Luiz and Danny Welbeck, as well as the likes of Sol Campbell and Andrey Arshavin.

Merino could potentially make his debut for The Gunners as early as this Saturday when the club take on Brighton at home in the early kick-off.

If Mikel Arteta instead decides to let the midfielder settle in, he could face the tougher task of heading to Tottenham Hotspur for the away leg of the North London derby.

Regardless of when he makes his debut, Arteta and the Arsenal backroom staff will be happy to see this move pushed over the line, as it will bolster their squad for the Premier League title challenge they will face this season.

GSFN | Ciaran Currie