The year 2024 has witnessed the breakthrough of the midfielder playing in La Liga. Last season, Mikel Merino was the best player of Real Sociedad club. Then he played even better at Euro 2024, where the Spanish team became the king of Europe. Merino himself played all 7 matches and even became a hero with the decisive goal in the quarterfinal victory over Germany.
Impressive form made Mikel Merino immediately interested in many big teams. Real Sociedad also understands this and the Spanish team's president Aperribay confirmed they are ready to sell their pillar, according to Metro: "I really don't want him to leave. But if he is interested in any of the offers we have, we will consider it."
Currently, Arsenal is the dominant team in the race to win Merino's signature. Although Barcelona and Atletico are also present, the Spanish midfielder seems to want to go to the Premier League more.
According to assessments from The Guardian, Mikel Merino is a player who is very suitable for Arsenal. He is familiar with the 4-3-3 formation under coach Imanol Alguacil, similar to what Arteta often uses at Arsenal.
The point that the Gunners are most impressed with Merino is the versatility of the 28-year-old star. The midfielder playing for Real Sociedad usually plays as a left-sided central midfielder, but can also attack high up, or drop back to play as a defensive midfielder. It is predicted that he will be a good partner with Declan Rice and can swap positions with the former West Ham star.
Another point to note is that Merino is very talented in fighting, something Arsenal is lacking. In the Premier League last season, Jorginho and Declan Rice had a total of 6 disputed wins per match. As for Merino, he alone has up to 10 dispute wins every 90 minutes.
