Arsenal and Real Sociedad remain significantly apart on the terms and value of Mikel Merino’s proposed transfer, with negotiations potentially extending to the end of the transfer window, according to The Independent.
Real Sociedad has demonstrated their negotiating toughness, as seen in Liverpool’s unsuccessful bid for Martin Zubimendi.
Their resolve is further intensified by the prospect of losing three major Spain Euro 2024 winners this summer: Zubimendi, Merino, and Atlético Madrid’s Robin Le Normand.
While there was hope that Zubimendi’s stay might facilitate Merino’s move to Arsenal, the deal is still far from complete.
Real Sociedad are demanding €35 million (£29.9 million) for the 28-year-old, whose contract expires next year.
Although Merino is keen on the transfer and his intentions are clear, negotiations have stalled over the transfer fee and the structure of payments.
Arsenal prefer to offer closer to €25 million (£21.3 million) due to Merino’s contract situation and would like to spread the payments over three years.
Real Sociedad, however, are seeking a larger upfront payment.
Despite this, Arsenal is confident a deal can be reached and manager Mikel Arteta is already planning how to integrate the Spanish international into various midfield roles.
The midfielder’s tactical versatility offers numerous possibilities for Arteta’s setup.
However, Arsenal expect prolonged negotiations with Real Sociedad.
In addition to securing another midfielder, Arsenal are also in the market for a versatile wide forward.
Interest in Nico Williams has become increasingly unlikely due to his desire to remain in Spain and his commitment to staying at Athletic Bilbao for another season.
The Basque club has awarded him the No. 10 shirt this season in an effort to fend off interest from Barcelona.
This summer, Arsenal have bolstered their defensive options by signing Riccardo Calafiori and made David Raya’s loan a permanent deal.
Their major departures so far include Emile Smith Rowe to Fulham and Karl Hein on loan to Real Valladolid, along with several released players, including Cedric Soares and Mohamed Elneny.
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