The Gunners are said to be eyeing up the Real Sociedad midfielder as an ideal addition to their squad, according to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo . They're even willing to put forward a hefty deal to persuade him to make the move to the Emirates Stadium.
However, Arsenal faces stiff competition from Aston Villa and Barcelona. Merino, 28, has just one year left on his current contract with Sociedad and comes with a £56 million ($72.6 million) release clause. He made the switch to the club from Newcastle in 2018 and has since played 242 games, won the Copa del Rey in 2020, and earned 28 caps for Spain.
His performances at Euro 2024, including scoring a crucial extra-time winner against Germany in the quarterfinals, have only increased his appeal. The Gunners will be hoping their pursuit of Merino proves more fruitful than their attempts to sign his Sociedad teammate Martin Zubimendi, who has been regularly linked with a move to the Emirates but now looks set to stay in San Sebastian.
Reports from Spain had previously hinted that he'd turned down a switch to north London, but Zubimendi himself has spoken about his future, making it clear he's not looking for a move just yet.
"They are just rumours, I am happy at Real Sociedad, it is like my home," he said. "I cannot say that I will play my entire career at Real Sociedad, perhaps the club won’t want me to continue in the future. But I do not concern myself with these rumors."
Sociedad's manager Imanol Alguacil also expressed confidence in Zubimendi's commitment. Last season, he confidently stated: "Martin Zubimendi wants to stay here and for sure he will stay with us at Real Sociedad next season. I have no doubts, he's staying with us."
Liverpool.com says: Merino was very impressive during Euro 2024 and will be an asset to whoever signs him this summer. Liverpool isn't looking for a midfielder right now, with a center-back a priority for new head coach Arne Slot.
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