Fabrizio Romano has provided an update on Arsenal and Mikel Merino, confirming the accuracy of the news…

Fabrizio Romano has provided an update on Arsenal’s interest in Mikel Merino, stating that while the Gunners are keen on the player, they have not made a formal offer or entered into negotiations with Real Sociedad.

Romano suggests that a bid of around €25m could be sufficient to secure the services of the Spanish midfielder.

Arsenal have shown interest in acquiring Mikel Merino during this summer transfer window, but as of now, they have not submitted an offer for the player or entered into any concrete discussions with Real Sociedad regarding a potential transfer deal.

According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, who exclusively spoke to GIVEMESPORT, the Gunners are considering a move for the Euro 2024 champion to partner with Declan Rice in midfield.

Despite Merino’s significant contributions to Real Sociedad’s success last season and his impressive performances for Spain in Euro 2024, Mikel Arteta has yet to make a formal approach to the club.

It is believed that a transfer fee of €25m could be sufficient to persuade Sociedad to part ways with the talented midfielder.

Arsenal has not submitted an offer for Merino, despite the midfielder being highly regarded by the Gunners.

After progressing through Osasuna’s youth system, Merino made a move to Borussia Dortmund, where he struggled to make an impact. Following just nine appearances for the Bundesliga team, the Spaniard transferred to Newcastle in 2017.

After a year at Newcastle, Merino moved to Real Sociedad in 2018.

He has since established himself as a reliable box-to-box midfielder in La Liga, earning praise from football analyst Ben Mattinson as an “absolute baller.” With 242 appearances over six seasons in Spain, Merino has also earned a spot in the national team.

While a potential transfer to Arsenal is being considered, with Arteta eyeing him as a complement to Rice and Odegaard in midfield, transfer expert Romano confirmed that Arsenal has not made an offer for the 28-year-old player.

Mikel Arteta has been actively advocating for the signing of Riccardo Calafiori this summer, showcasing his significant influence alongside Edu (Gaspar) in shaping Arsenal’s transfer strategy.

The interest in Mikel Merino remains strong, with a confirmed appreciation for the player.

However, the lack of a concrete bid or negotiation at this stage means that his arrival is not guaranteed. Arsenal’s focus may now shift towards strengthening the midfield, especially with Calafiori’s imminent arrival from Bologna.

Merino, whose contract expires in a year, could potentially be a cost-effective option for the club this transfer window.

Arsenal is also considering a move for Ruiz, who is a midfielder for PSG and could be on the market during this transfer window.

The club seems to be prioritizing the acquisition of a player in this position, with Merino being one of the options under consideration. In addition to Merino, Arsenal has initiated discussions to secure the services of Fabian Ruiz from Paris Saint-Germain.

Ruiz faced a lack of opportunities at PSG last season, as manager Luis Enrique often chose other players over him.

This situation, combined with PSG’s upcoming signing of Joao Neves from Benfica, may create an opportunity for Ruiz to depart from Paris, with Arsenal showing interest and prepared to make a move.