Arsenal are closing in on their third signing of the summer in the shape of Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino.
The Gunners started their Premier League campaign with a comfortable 2-0 win over Wolves on Saturday afternoon.
David Raya kept his spot between the sticks after completing a permanent £27million move to North London, but £42m arrival Riccardo Calafiori remained on the bench.
Thomas Partey joined Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard in a midfield trio but Arsenal are now looking to add to their midfield by signing Mikel Merino.
As revealed by HITC, Merino turned down a new contract offer at Real Sociedad and is now expected to join Arsenal.
They have already agreed personal terms with Merino, who was left out of Sociedad’s squad for their 2-1 defeat to Rayo Vallecano on Sunday.
Real Sociedad manager on Mikel Merino to Arsenal
Real Sociedad manager Imanol Alguacil responded to questions about Mikel Merino and Martin Zubimendi after his side’s La Liga defeat.
Alguacil admitted that he has asked for reinforcements this summer as he braces to lose Merino to Arsenal.
“It is clear that there are no two players like Le Normand and Merino, and Real Sociedad will not be able to replace those players with the same level,” Alguacil said.
“And I won’t even tell you if Zubimendi had left. There is a reason why Arsenal wants [Mikel] Merino and Liverpool was willing to pay Zubimendi’s release clause.
“I have asked for reinforcements in all positions because if we can improve it will be good for the team. Now is not the time to get nervous, we are not at 100% yet.”
Mikel Merino can push Arsenal to the title
Merino’s arrival at Arsenal addresses their lack of depth in midfield. Likewise, Calafiori has fixed their issues at left-back.
Mikel Arteta now has a well-balanced squad – their only flaw is up front where Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz will have to supply goals.
But Arsenal are well-equipped to go toe-to-toe with Manchester City again. With Merino on their books they might even come out on top this time.
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