Arsenal are weighing up a bid for Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino, according to Mundo Deportivo.
The Gunners have been heavily linked with Merino’s club teammate Martin Zubimendi over the past year but the Catalan publication says that Mikel Arteta’s side are now targeting the 28-year-old instead.
It is believed that Barcelona are also keen on securing Merino’s services, having identified him as a cheaper alternative to Everton’s Amadou Onana.
Mundo Deportivo claim that Barca don’t expect a lot of competition for the midfielder but they see “Arsenal as the only danger”.
Merino has played in England before
Newcastle signed the Spanish international on loan from Borussia Dortmund for the 2017/18 season. He scored 1 goal and contributed 1 assist in 25 appearances for the Magpies.
While Merino did complete a permanent move to St James’ Park the following summer, he ended up leaving England within days of his transfer being finalised, signing for Real Sociedad for €12m.
The midfielder has spent the last six years in San Sebastian but he is now closing in on the final year of his contract, meaning he will be available for a relatively modest fee.
Arsenal aim to strengthen their options in the middle of the park
It is believed that the Gunners are looking to bring in a new No.6, with Arteta said to be keen on freeing up Declan Rice so he can play further forward on a more regular basis.
Whether Merino would fit the profile, though, it is up for debate. He is actually more of a No.8, having scored 8 goals and provided 5 assists for Sociedad last campaign.
It seems more likely that the Spaniard would be competing with Rice for a place in the starting eleven. We shall have to wait and see whether this transfer story has any legs.
