Arsenal announced the signing of Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad earlier today, August 27.
Arsenal are expected to pay £31.6 million for Mikel Merino, which includes an initial payment of £27.4 million plus £4.2 million in add-ons.
The 28-year-old Spanish midfielder has signed a four-year contract with the Gunners which comes with the option to extend for an additional 12 months.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed his enthusiasm about the signing, saying, “Mikel is a player who will bring us huge quality with his experience and versatility.”
Merino’s recent success includes being part of the Spain squad that clinched the Euro 2024 title, contributing significantly to their victory with a late winning goal against Germany in the quarter-final.
This signing marks Arsenal’s third acquisition in the current transfer window, following the additions of Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori and Spain goalkeeper David Raya, whom the club secured from Brentford after his loan spell.
Merino’s playing style as a versatile midfielder is expected to complement the strengths of players like Declan Rice, Jorginho, Thomas Partey, and Martin Odegaard in Arsenal’s midfield.
Merino has previous experience in the Premier League, having spent a year at Newcastle before joining Real Sociedad in 2018, where he played alongside Odegaard during the Norwegian’s loan spell from Real Madrid.
“Mikel will make our squad significantly stronger, with his technical ability, together with his strong and positive character and personality,” Arteta added.
“As we all saw in the summer, Mikel is also a winner, with his strong performances throughout the Euros helping Spain win the tournament.”
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