Arsenal have taken the lead in the race for Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino, as the Real Sociedad playmaker looks to seal a move in the next month. Merino is out of contract next summer, but La Real will try to sell him this year.
As per Matteo Moretto, reporting on Fabrizio Romano’s Daily Briefing, Arsenal are now ahead of Barcelona and Atletico Madrid in the race for Merino, following fresh contacts for the Basque this week. Real Sociedad have given up hope of retaining him, and will seek the best deal possible. While Barcelona are focusing on other matters currently, and Arsenal are free to move for him after securing Riccardo Calafiori, Moretto did note that he will take his time over a decision, and will wait to see what options are on the table before making one.
Flick tried Ansu Fati as a striker. He has the word of the club that he'll get his opportunity. @jordicardero
— barcacentre (@barcacentre) July 28, 2024
Merino showed at Euro 2024 just how valuable he can be. Traditionally for La Real he played in a two with Martin Zubimendi, where he has excelled to become one of the best in the division. The Txuri-Urdin have since been linked with Valencia youngster Javi Guerra as a potential replacement.
