Arsenal’s sporting director, Edu, has travelled to Spain with the intention of finalising a deal for Mikel Merino.

Merino, a talented player from Real Sociedad, who is 28 years old, expresses his desire to join the Gunners. Currently, the two teams are engaged in negotiations on the transfer of this Spanish midfielder.

He was absent from their pre-season friendly team against Union Berlin on Friday amidst speculation that he is transferring to the Emirates.

Merino was a member of the Spanish team that emerged victorious in the Euro 2024 tournament, and he secured the winning goal against Germany during the quarter-final match.

Mikel Arteta has expressed a longstanding desire to acquire the midfielder, and Arsenal is currently engaged in negotiations for his signing.

Once a bid is approved, it is expected that reaching an agreement on personal terms with Merino would be uncomplicated.

Real Sociedad is eager to retain Merino and has presented him with a new contract as his current agreement is due to end next year.

Nevertheless, the player’s agents have allegedly notified the club that Merino plans to commit to the Gunners.

Arsenal’s ability to finalise a move may be contingent on their ability to sell players, and it is expected that Eddie Nketiah will be the one to depart.

Marseille were in negotiations to acquire the striker but declined to meet Arsenal’s £27 million valuation.

Bournemouth is considering Nketiah as a potential successor to Dominic Solanke.

Arsenal had to part ways with Emile Smith Rowe this summer in order to finance the acquisition of Riccardo Califiori.