Arsenal have been fancied to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino with his contract expiring next summer, according to Mundo Deportivo (Gipuzkoa edition).
The Gunners are open to signing a new midfielder and a recent report claimed that manager Mikel Arteta has already held secret talks with Merino over a transfer.
It is now reported that Sociedad are not optimistic of renewing Merino’s contract after the midfielder said that he is an ‘adventurer’ and is open to a new challenge.
If there is no agreement over an extension, the La Liga outfit are bound to sell him. Arsenal are deemed as front-runners as Barcelona can’t afford to sign him as of now.
The Blaugrana can only spend 25 percent of any funds received. They are currently waiting for La Liga authorities to end their Financial Fair Play spending restrictions.
Merino won’t be a good signing for Arsenal
The 28-year-old has made close to 250 appearances during his six seasons at Sociedad. In the recent campaign, he registered eight goals and five assists from central midfield.
The Spaniard also impressed with high pressing and positioning, but we are not convinced over his ability on the ball. He had a passing accuracy of only 77 percent in La Liga last term.
Sociedad manager Imanol previously described him as ‘the best player in La Liga’ and Merino was also quick to acknowledge that he is ‘one of the best’ in the league too.
However, we do not believe he can improve at his present age. Merino previously had a disappointing stint at Newcastle United where he made 25 appearances in 2017/18.
The Magpies were more than happy to part ways with him at the time. In our view, Merino would not be a good signing for Arsenal who are now challenging for the league title.
The former Borussia Dortmund man lost possession on 14 occasions per game last season. This is another potential warning sign that he could struggle on his return to England.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
