Arsenal ramp up bid to complete Mikel Merino transfer as sporting director Edu travels to Spain for talks over Real Sociedad midfield dynamo

The 28-year-old midfielder has been on Arsenal's radar for several transfer windows, and it seems the club is now ready to make a concerted effort to sign him. According to The Athletic, sporting director Edu's visit to Spain this week reflects Arsenal’s determination to finalise the deal, with Merino reportedly eager to work under Arteta. Personal terms between the player and Arsenal are not expected to be a stumbling block.

Real Sociedad, meanwhile, are reluctantly coming to terms with the possibility of losing Merino. The midfielder has just 12 months left on his current contract, and despite the club’s efforts to extend his stay in San Sebastian, it appears Merino's mind is set on a move to England. His representatives have reportedly informed La Real of his intention to join Arsenal, making it increasingly difficult for the Spanish club to retain him. With his contract ticking down, they may be forced to sell the player this summer rather than risk losing him for free next year.

Arsenal's transfer strategy this summer has been marked by calculated moves, ensuring that new signings are often contingent on player sales. A similar approach is expected in the Merino negotiations, where the club will likely want to secure a significant departure before proceeding with the final stages of the deal. In Merino's case, the player most likely to make way is Eddie Nketiah. Although a proposed transfer to Marseille fell through, there remains strong interest in the 25-year-old striker from Bournemouth.

Merino’s journey in professional football has been marked by a series of impressive stints across Europe. After coming through the youth ranks at Osasuna, he made a move to Borussia Dortmund before joining Newcastle United in 2017. His time in the Premier League was brief but valuable, as it gave him exposure to English football, which could prove beneficial should he return with Arsenal.