Arsenal’s pursuit of Mikel Merino has taken a significant turn, with Real Sociedad managing to negotiate a better deal than initially expected.
Earlier reports suggested that Arsenal could secure Merino for a fee between £20 million and £25 million, but the final agreement has seen the price rise.
The new deal now includes an additional £2 million in the upfront fee, along with £4.2 million in potential add-ons, reflecting the value Real Sociedad placed on the Spanish midfielder.
Renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed the details of the deal, marking it with his trademark phrase, “Here we go!” Romano’s tweet highlighted that a verbal agreement is now in place for Merino to join Arsenal, with the total deal amounting to €32 million plus €5 million in add-ons.
The payment terms are reported to be favorable for Arsenal, and the contract will extend until 2028, with an option for further extension.
This development comes after weeks of negotiations, with Arsenal making significant progress on the Merino deal since late July.
It was also noted that Merino had his heart set on Arsenal, despite having other offers on the table.
Romano emphasized the crucial role of Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, in securing Merino’s commitment to the club.
Arteta’s influence was a decisive factor, just as it had been in previous signings like Riccardo Calafiori.
Despite interest from other clubs, Merino was clear in his desire to move to North London.
His commitment to Arsenal was such that he turned down at least two other offers in favor of joining the Gunners.
Merino is expected to travel to London soon for a medical examination and to finalize the contract, which will run until 2028, with an option for an additional year.
During a press conference on Friday, Arteta provided little in the way of detailed updates but did indicate that the transfer was imminent, saying it would happen “soon.”
Romano later followed up with another tweet, stating that Merino was on his way to London as planned.
He is scheduled to undergo medical tests and sign his contract, which is set to keep him at Arsenal until June 2028, with an option to extend it to 2029.
In addition to the Merino transfer news, Arsenal is also dealing with the potential departure of goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.
Ramsdale has been seeking a new club, and there have been reports of interest from various teams.
Sky Sports has reported that newly-promoted Southampton is preparing a loan bid for the England international.
However, it appears that Arsenal may not be interested in a temporary arrangement.
The Gunners have already rejected loan offers from Ajax and Wolves in recent weeks, indicating their preference for a permanent sale.
Arsenal’s stance is motivated by the need to balance their summer spending.
They have set a £20 million asking price for Ramsdale, but so far, no club has been willing to meet that valuation.
With the transfer deadline approaching, Arsenal might have to reconsider their options, and a loan deal with an option to buy could be the best solution if a permanent transfer cannot be secured.
As the transfer window edges closer to its conclusion, Arsenal’s focus remains on finalizing the Merino deal while also addressing the situation with Ramsdale.
The next few days will be crucial for the Gunners as they look to strengthen their squad while also managing their outgoings.