Barcelona are determined to sign a new midfielder during the summer transfer window, and one of their reported targets is Real Sociedad’s Mikel Merino, who was the hero for Spain on Friday as they defeated Germany 2-1 to book their place in the semi-finals of Euro 2024.
Video: Gündogan asking Ferran Torres how Pedri is, minutes after being eliminated from EURO 2024. pic.twitter.com/GgqCgsub65
— barcacentre (@barcacentre) July 6, 2024
Merino would be a low-cost option, as he looks set to leave Donostia-San Sebastian on a cut-price deal. The 28-year-old’s La Real contract expires in 2025, and recent reports have suggested that club bosses are resigned to cashing in on him this summer.
On Friday, Miguel Merino addressed the speculation surrounding his son’s future during an interview with El Chiringuito(via MD). He confirmed that there would be no movement before the conclusion of Euro 2024.
“Mikel has already said actively and passively that until Spain finishes its participation at Euro 2024, he is not going to talk about anything else. He is only going to talk about the European Championship, and then he will talk to his agent and his club and whoever he has to talk to solve what he has to solve.”
It remains to be seen whether Merino starts the 2024-25 campaign. Remaining at Real Sociedad is possible, although it does seem for likely that a departure takes place – Barcelona will be on alert, as will Atletico Madrid, who are also keen.
