Arsenal have acquired the services of Mikel Merino, a Spain international and champion of Euro 2024, from Real Sociedad in the Liga.

Arsenal have made a significant addition to their squad with the signing of Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad. The 28-year-old midfielder has put pen to paper on a long-term contract, providing manager Mikel Arteta with another valuable option in the middle of the park alongside Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard.

Merino’s versatility is one of his key attributes, as he is capable of playing in both the defensive midfield role (No. 6) and the more advanced central midfield position (No. 8). His ability to adapt to different roles will undoubtedly strengthen Arteta’s midfield options.

Last season, Merino showcased his tenacity and competitiveness by winning the most duels (326) out of any player in Europe’s top five leagues. This statistic highlights his ability to add a combative edge to Arsenal’s midfield, which will be crucial in their pursuit of success.

Arteta expressed his excitement about the signing, stating, “Mikel is a player who will bring us huge quality with his experience and versatility. He has played at the top level for both club and country for several seasons now. Mikel’s technical ability, combined with his strong character and personality, will significantly strengthen our squad. We are thrilled to welcome Mikel and his family to the club and can’t wait to start working with him.”

While Arsenal celebrate their new acquisition, Real Sociedad will be disappointed to lose Merino’s services. The Basque side were reluctant to part ways with the midfielder, but with only one year remaining on his contract and no agreement reached for an extension, they decided to cut their losses.

Merino’s impact extends beyond the club level, as he played a crucial role in Spain’s triumph at Euro 2024. He made six appearances for the national team, including scoring an extra-time winner against Germany in the quarter-finals. Additionally, Merino has enjoyed success at the youth level, winning the Under-19 European Championship in 2019 and 2015 with Spain.

The midfielder also boasts an impressive trophy cabinet, having won the UEFA Nations League, the German Cup with Borussia Dortmund, and the Spanish Cup with Real Sociedad.

Merino’s arrival marks Arsenal’s third signing of the season, following the permanent acquisition of David Raya from Brentford and the addition of Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna for a reported fee of £35 million. With these signings, Arsenal are demonstrating their ambition to strengthen their squad and compete at the highest level.