Barcelona target feels Arsenal would be his best destination; now ‘getting closer’ to Emirates transfer: Reports
Barcelona transfer target Mikel Merino reportedly considered Arsenal to be his best destination. The Spanish midfielder has also been of interest to La Liga club Atlético de Madrid, and Premier League side Chelsea among others in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Merino, who signed for Real Sociedad in 2018, has his contract with the Spanish club valid until June 30, 2025. The 28-year-old has reportedly refused the offer of a contract renewal proposed by the La Liga club, to consider other options.
Mikel Merino believes that Arsenal will be the best destination for him, as per Spanish newspaper Noticias de Gipuzkoa. The midfielder feels that the Gunners' style of playing under Mikel Arteta's management suits him and a transfer to the Emirates will be an important step in his career.
Arsenal, who are currently working on reaching the deal for Bologna's defender Riccardo Calafiori, are also interested in Mikel Merino with Arteta keen on signing him, according to reports via Sport Witness. The Gunners have not officially presented a bid for the Spanish midfielder as of yet.
Spanish journalist Kike Marin has recently provided a short update mentioning that Mikel Merino's move to the Emirates is 'getting closer.'
Mikel Merino recorded eight goals and provided five assists in 45 appearances for Real Sociedad in the last season. He also won the 2024 UEFA European Championship with Spain.
Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Arsenal reportedly interested in signing Manchester United's target
Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Arsenal are reportedly keen on signing Manchester United target Adrien Rabiot in this summer transfer window, as per CaughtOffside.
The French midfielder Rabiot is currently a free agent after a five-year tenure at Juventus with multiple top European clubs trying to sign him. Erik ten Hag's Manchester United are looking for a midfielder who can play alongside Kobbie Mainoo and are reportedly considering Rabiot to be a perfect fit for the role.
Barcelona, who are currently facing financial struggles, are also interested in signing the 29-year-old on a free transfer while rivals Real Madrid have also shown interest in him as they are reportedly looking for a successor to Toni Kroos.
The Gunners are keen on signing Adrien Rabiot as a long-term replacement for Jorginho along with Thomas Partey's expected departure from the Emirates this summer.