Arsenal are yet to make an outfield signing this summer.
David Raya has been the only major acquisition. The Spanish goalkeeper secured his permanent transfer from Brentford after a successful season on loan with the Gunners.
The club are locked in negotiations with Bologna over defender Riccardo Calafiori but have yet to finalise a suitable payment structure for him.
The Telegraph now claims the Gunners are plotting a move for Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino.
His reputation was enhanced during the 2024 European Championship. The Spaniard could be available for £20 million with his contract with Sociedad expiring in June next year.
Arsenal are not alone in the pursuit and could face competition from Atletico Madrid and Barcelona.
Merino would provide more depth and experience
Manager Mikel Arteta picked Jorginho and Thomas Partey in the number six role towards the end of last season as Declan Rice was handed more freedom to press forward.
The Gunners boss may want more competition for places and Merino would be a quality signing.
The Spaniard started his career as a defensive midfielder. He made 22 appearances in the role during his solitary campaign with Newcastle United in 2017/18.
He has since played for Sociedad and established himself in a central role.
Merino has caught the eye with his strong duel-winning ability and other defensive attributes.
The Spain international won a stunning 10.2 ground and aerial duels per game last season with an average of 2.4 tackles, 6.2 ball recoveries and 1.7 clearances.
He was likewise impressive in the final third. He registered eight goals and five assists last and showed a willingness to regularly high press his opponents.
Merino has a drawback with an average 77 percent pass success rate and tendency to lose possession, but Arteta is an admirer of his overall abilities.
With the low price tag involved, Arsenal’s hierarchy could be prepared to sign the Spaniard, who was described as ‘world-class‘ by defender Kieran Tierney last term.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com/
