Wednesday morning deal: Arsenal on the verge of completing their second signing of the summer today after reaching underground agreement with the player representatives yesterday – Here we go

Mikel Merino’s rejection of a move to Atletico Madrid has given Arsenal and Barcelona a boost in their pursuit of him.
Real Sociedad star Mikel Merino is open to joining either Barcelona or Arsenal, which has given Arsenal and Barcelona a significant advantage in their pursuit of him, according to a report from SPORT. Despite Atletico Madrid’s approach, he declined the chance to become a member of Diego Simeone’s squad.

Merino left Newcastle United to join Real Sociedad back in 2018. Over the years, he has been a more valuable member of their inaugural squad. The 28-year-old enjoyed a fantastic season the previous year, making 45 appearances across all competitions and tallying five assists in addition to eight goals.

Although La Real would prefer to have him around for a few more years, his current deal expires in 2025, thus it appears he is ready to transfer to a bigger club. The Spanish international’s circumstances at Real Sociedad have drawn the attention of other elite clubs, who are prepared to compete for his services. He is the winner of the Euro 2024.

Among the teams hoping to sign the star midfielder is Atletico Madrid. Although they made an attempt to sign him, Mikel Merino has no desire to play for them. The sporting initiative they have offered to him does not convince him to sign for them, thus he declines to do so.

Mikel Merino heading to Barcelona or Arsenal?
Merino is open to go to both Barcelona and Arsenal, despite having declined the chance to join Simeone’s squad. In an effort to move forward and end their Premier League title drought, the Gunners seek to bolster their midfield with additional talent.

The Catalan giants, who struggled last season due of injuries to key players, are attempting to guarantee they have adequate depth and quality by adding Merino. In a deal estimated to cost around €30 million, the Blaugrana are eager to sign him. Arsenal, however, poses a serious threat to Barcelona and is prepared to cover the whole cost up front, which is ideal for Real Sociedad.

But because of the relationship between Real Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay and Barcelona president Joan Laporta, Barcelona is still in the running. The Catalan giants appear to have plenty of time on their hands to resolve their financial issues, even with Arsenal’s significant cash edge.