Arsenal appear to be involved in the race for Mikel Merino's card. The talented Spaniard is active with Real Sociedad in La Liga, but it seems that the start of the season could find him at a new club. Apart from Arsenal, Aston Villa are also interested in the midfielder, who was just crowned European champion with his national team. Spain managed to beat England 2-1 in Berlin, securing another trophy in the international arena.
Meanwhile, regarding Arsenal's interest in Merino, the London club is expected to offer the midfielder a very attractive contract from the financial point of view. According to the prestigious El Mundo Deportivo, "The Gunners" are favorites to secure Merino's services.
Mikel Arteta is on the lookout for a talented central midfielder, offering Arsenal more options ahead of the new season. Merino impressed with his performances for Real Sociedad last season. The player was active in a total of 45 matches in all competitions, managing to score 8 goals and 5 assists. The Spaniard has less than 1 year left on his current contract with Sociedad and the club want to sell him to avoid losing him at zero cost. Sociedad have long offered Merino a new contract, but the player has rejected it and seems to have already made the decision to leave the club.
On the other hand, Aston Villa may withdraw from the race for Merino, considering the approach of Amadou Onana to the team. The player is activated in the same position as Merino, and considering the pressure from Arsenal, Villa can give up the Spanish midfielder. However, at the moment nothing has been finalized and more details will be revealed next week.
