Mikel Merino open to Arsenal transfer as Premier League giants step up negotiations with Real Sociedad after seeing initial offer rejected

Per Radio Marca's Yon Cuezva, the Gunners are in 'formal' talks to sign the Spain international as they look to bolster their midfielder ahead of the 2024-25 campaign. The journalist further claimed that the Spanish club had rejected an initial offer placed by Arsenal, however, the Premier League giants remain confident of signing Merino, who has given the green light for negotiations to continue.

The 28-year-old has been linked with a move to Emirates Stadium for several weeks now but a report from Football London recently claimed that the signing of the Spain international divided opinion among the Gunners' top officials, which is why the club waited until mid-August to initiate talks. However, it now seems that the north London club are close to sealing a deal for Merino, who has already verbally agreed to move to England.

Merino, who has the experience of playing in the Premier League with Newcastle United during the 2017-18 season, massively contributed to Spain's Euro 2024 triumph as he scored their all-important winning goal against Germany in the round of 16 in the 119th minute.

Mikel Arteta's men will begin their 2024-25 Premier League journey on Saturday as they take on Wolves in their season opener at Emirates Stadium, while discussions over the potential Merino transfer continue behind the scenes.