Arsenal’s top midfield target would prefer to stay in Spain despite Gunners interest

Arsenal target Mikel Merino would prefer to stay in Spain as the Gunners and Barcelona battle for the Spain international’s signature, according to reports.

Mikel Arteta is keen to strengthen his midfield options this summer with Merino firmly on the club’s radar.

Arsenal would typically target young players to bolster the squad but such is Arteta’s admiration of the 28-year-old Real Sociedad star, they are willing to make an exception in this case with the Gunners boss impressed with Merino’s ability and physicality.

Merino is currently enjoying a summer break following Spain’s Euro 2024 success, scoring that dramatic last-gasp winner against Germany in the quarter-finals of the competition.

He has entered the final year of his contract in San Sebastian with Arsenal, Atletico Madrid and Barcelona vying for his services.

Merino, who has a release clause of €60million with just one year left on his current deal, is currently considering his next move.

While Arsenal have the financial muscle to make the deal happen, El Desmarque report he would like to remain in La Liga with the project at Barcelona appealing to him most.

Atletico Madrid are also eager to bring him to the Spanish capital but Catalan daily Sport suggests they are now out of the running, with Merino not sold on plans at the Wanda Metropolitano.

Barcelona are also interested in signing Merino’s Spain teammates Dani Olmo and Nico Williams but face financial struggles in bringing their top targets to the Camp Nou this summer.

Arsenal hope to conclude their first piece of summer transfer business this week with a deal for Bologna star Riccardo Calafiori thought to be edging closer.

The 22-year-old was today left out of Bologna’s pre-season camp with a €50million move to the Emirates close to being completed.