Mikel Merino's Message to Arsenal prompts Real Sociedad's Response to opening bid

Mikel Merino has expressed his desire to move to Arsenal, but Real Sociedad has turned down the initial offer from Mikel Arteta's team, as reported in Spain.

Arteta has identified Merino as his top target to strengthen his midfield but Arsenal have yet to reach an agreement with Real Sociedad over a fee for the 28-year-old.

It’s understood that Real Sociedad are demanding a €35 million (£29.8m) fee for Merino but Arsenal are unwilling to meet that valuation, given that the midfielder will be out of contract next year.

Real Sociedad were handed a major boost earlier this week as Martin Zubimendi turned down a move to Liverpool.

But according to Radio Marca, Real Sociedad are now resigning themselves to losing Merino, who is keen to join Arsenal before the end of the transfer window.

The report claims that Real Sociedad and Arsenal are currently in talks over a fee for the Spain international but the first offer from the Gunners has been turned down.

Merino returned to pre-season training with Real Sociedad last week having been a part of Spain’s squad for their successful Euro 2024 campaign earlier this summer.

The midfielder made six appearances as a substitute at Euro 2024 and started in Spain’s 1-0 win over Albania in their final group game.

Asked about his future in June, Merino said: ‘The next step has to come from within, from me, from analysing myself, seeing what player I am now, where I am and where I want to go. And what is the way to do it.’

Arsenal, meanwhile, are preparing for their Premier League opener against Wolves on Saturday.

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