Arsenal and Real Sociedad have been locked in negotiations for Mikel Merino for several weeks now, with the Gunners already having agreed personal terms with the 27-year-old. The agreement with La Real continues to resist them though.
It has been reported for some time that the two sides are close on a deal, and that the general fee is agreed, but the structure of the deal is the key part of discussions, between a fixed fee and variables. Real Sociedad President Jokin Aperribay has confirmed they have held several rounds of talks with Arsenal, and that Merino has informed them of a desire to leave.
Nevertheless, Cadena Cope contradict previous reports, saying that the Txuri-Urdin continue to hold out for as much as they can get for the Euro 2024 winner, and are seeking to get as close to €40m as they can. Their information is that Real Sociedad have already turned down an offer of €30m plus €5m in variables. There is still optimism from Merino’s camp that the deal wil go ahead.
Given Merino’s contract is up next summer, it seems highly likely a deal will get done eventually. With the player set on a move, persuaded by Mikel Arteta it is the right option, and Real Sociedad undoubtedly keen not to lose him for free, it makes sense for all parties to reach a deal. It seems those factors will not lead to La Real ceding ground easily though.
