“Guardiola is my good friend but the player has choosen to join Arsenal and I can’t force him”: Manager responds to Man city eye-watering bid to hijack Arsenal transfer despite player has completed his medical to join Arteta’s side
“Guardiola is my good friend but the player has choosen to join Arsenal and I can’t force him”: Manager responds to Man city eye-watering bid to hijack Arsenal transfer despite player has completed his medical to join Arteta’s side
Arsenal are determined to sign one of Real Sociedad’s best players, according to Mundo Deportivo (Gipuzkoa edition).
The Gunners have identified Mikel Merino as their top midfield target and it was recently reported that a verbal offer worth £26 million was presented to Sociedad.
However, Mundo Deportivo claim that there has been no formal bid on the table.
Arsenal are ‘prepared to go all out’ for the Spain international, but Sociedad have yet to receive an offer.
Atletico Madrid are the only club who have made a proposal, but Merino has turned them down.
Arsenal could land Merino’s signature very soon
The Gunners have already agreed personal terms with the Spaniard on a long-term deal. A transfer could materialise soon with Sociedad having signed a replacement.
The La Liga outfit have confirmed the arrival of Luka Susic from Red Bull Salzburg. He is a left-footed central midfielder and has been tipped to succeed Merino.
Arsenal tend to prefer completing one deal at a time. They confirmed Emile Smith Rowe’s move to Fulham today and could now speed up the pursuit of Merino.
Merino, who has been described as ‘world-class‘ by Kieran Tierney, would be a fantastic acquisition, considering his defensive skills and creativity from midfield.
The Euro 2024 winner won a stunning 10.2 duels per La Liga game last term alongside 6.2 recoveries and 2.4 tackles. He also made close to two clearances per outing.
The former Newcastle United man also impressed in the final third with 13 goal contributions. His all-round attributes could make him a perfect signing for manager Mikel Arteta.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
