Barcelona will look to include player in deal for Arsenal target Mikel Merino

Barcelona have identified Real Sociedad’s Mikel Merino as a low-cost option to strengthen their midfield this summer, but it does not take a genius to notice his performances, and they are not the only ones in the race. Atletico Madrid have also been in discussions with Real Sociedad, and Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has called Merino about a potential move.

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The 28-year-old is out of contract next summer, and thus La Real are looking to cut a deal that could be worth around €20m, as per Catalan media. Barcelona are confident that Merino would choose them over a move to Arsenal or Atletico, but Sport note that wherever he goes, his move is likely to be extend towards the end of the transfer market.

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They also explain that Barcelona may try to include a central defender in the deal to lower the cost yet further. With Robin Le Normand on his way to Atletico Madrid, for around €30m, Real Sociedad are looking for a centre-back, something Barcelona have in abundance. As a result, any one of Eric Garcia, Clement Lenglet, Inigo Martinez or Mikayil Faye could be included in a deal for Merino.

Certainly if La Real are interested in any of the four central defenders mentioned, none of which would be bad options, then it makes a lot of sense on paper. However swap deals are increasingly rare for a reason, with player intentions either not aligned with those of clubs, or better offers coming in from elsewhere.