ARSENAL AGREE DEAL FOR MERINO

Arsenal have reached an agreement in principle with Real Sociedad for the signing of midfielder Mikel Merino. The Gunners are set to pay €33.5 million (£28.4 million) upfront, with an additional €5 million (£4.2 million) in potential add-ons.

Merino, 28, is expected to undergo a medical soon before finalizing the move by signing a long-term contract. Personal terms between the player and Arsenal have already been agreed, making the transfer close to completion. The Spanish international, who was instrumental in Spain’s victory at Euro 2024, where he played in all seven matches, is set to bolster Arsenal’s midfield options, slotting in as a No. 8.

Arsenal’s interest in Merino predates his standout performances at the European Championship. The club had been monitoring him closely last season, recognizing his key role in Real Sociedad’s success. His arrival at the Emirates Stadium will strengthen the Gunners’ midfield, providing depth and versatility as they look to compete on multiple fronts this season.

As Arsenal prepare to welcome Merino, they are also focused on trimming their squad before the transfer window closes next week. The most likely departure is striker Eddie Nketiah, who is in advanced talks with Nottingham Forest. A deal worth around £30 million is close to being agreed, with both clubs optimistic that the transfer will be finalized soon.

Nketiah has found playing time hard to come by at Arsenal, having not started a competitive match since New Year’s Eve. At 25 years old, the striker is eager for regular first-team football, and both he and Arsenal have accepted that a move away from the Emirates is the best course of action. Nottingham Forest, keen to add firepower to their attack, have identified Nketiah as a prime target and are working to secure his services before the window closes.

In addition to Nketiah, Forest have also shown interest in Feyenoord’s Santiago Gimenez. The 23-year-old Mexican striker has been in sensational form since his move to the Netherlands, scoring 26 goals in all competitions last season. He has continued that impressive run into the current campaign, netting four goals in the opening three games. However, the financial demands of a potential deal for Gimenez have made negotiations challenging, leading Forest to prioritize the pursuit of Nketiah.

As Arsenal prepare for the final days of the transfer window, the club’s focus is on both incoming and outgoing deals. While the addition of Merino will enhance their midfield, the departure of Nketiah is likely to provide the player with the regular playing time he needs, while also helping Arsenal balance their squad. The Gunners’ activity in the market underscores their ambition to build a team capable of challenging for top honors this season.