ARSENAL PLANNING MOVE FOR SPAIN’S EURO 2024 STAR

Arsenal are plotting a move for Spain’s Euro 2024 winner and Real Sociedad midfielder, Mikel Merino.

Merino’s reputation has obviously been enhanced by his impressive performance in Germany, but Arsenal were already looking at the 28-year-old before that.

According to The Telegraph, Merino could represent good value given he’s in the final year of his contract, though the Gunners will face competition for his signature.

The report cites Spanish media claims that Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are interested, with Real Sociedad wanting around £20m for the transfer.

El Desmarque recently reported that everything suggested Merino will turn down a new deal with his current club, effectively forcing them to sell.

Mikel Arteta reportedly really likes Merino, and the player knows what it’s like to play in the Premier League, having done so with Newcastle United. But he would also consider staying in La Liga.

Merino made 45 appearances for Real Sociedad in 2023/24, scoring eight goals and made assisting.

He previously played in the Premier League with Newcastle United for a season, making 25 appearances in 2017/18 before moving on to La Liga.