Arsenal is eyeing a new addition to their midfield, with Real Sociedad’s Mikel Merino emerging as a top target. Mikel Arteta, the Gunners’ manager, is keen to bolster his squad following the departures of key midfielders this summer. The potential acquisition of Merino is particularly intriguing given his statistical resemblance to Marouane Fellaini, a player Arteta once worked with at Everton.
Merino, whose contract with Real Sociedad is set to expire next summer, could be available on a bargain deal. His profile as a box-to-box midfielder mirrors Fellaini’s, particularly in terms of tackle success rate, progressive passes, and possession-adjusted ball recoveries. These attributes make Merino a valuable asset for Arsenal as they seek to strengthen their midfield options.
During the last season, Merino stood out across Europe’s top five leagues with a leading tally of duels won, highlighting his effectiveness in both defensive and offensive roles. This performance underscores why Arteta sees him as a fitting addition to his tactical setup, aiming to replicate the success Fellaini brought to Everton during their time together.
As Arsenal continues to navigate the transfer market, securing Merino could provide a significant boost to their squad depth. With other midfield targets like Amadou Onana and Douglas Luiz already moving to different clubs, Merino represents a strategic choice that aligns with Arteta’s vision for the upcoming season.
