Latest twist could see Arsenal decide against signing midfield transfer target

Arsenal have been linked with a move for Real Sociedad and Spain midfielder Mikel Merino.

The Gunners have signed goalkeeper David Raya in a permanent deal this summer and they have managed to signed Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna to add strength and depth to their defense.

However, they intend to sign more players as they prepare to challenge Manchester City again for the Premier League title.

The Gunners have failed against Pep Guardiola’s City side in the last two season after finishing second both times.

Although they have closed the gap on the Premier League champions, they are still far from winning the league title.

According to latest reports, Arsenal are sceptical about signing Spain’s Euro 2024 midfielder Merino this summer because of his age.

The 28-year-old was a part of Spain’s Euro 2024 winning side, scoring a crucial goal for them in their quarterfinal win against Germany.

As per Football.London, there is some scepticism about the midfielder’s age in the Arsenal hierarchy.

The Gunners have signed young players under manager Mikel Arteta and their transfer strategy has been clear from day one under this management.

Arteta has focused on younger players who he can mold into his playing style and who have not yet reached their peak.

Merino has played a lot of football and at the age of 28, he would represent the Gunners going against their rule of signing young players.

It is clear that Arteta is looking for a midfield partner for Declan Rice as he does not trust Thomas Partey anymore. The former Atletico Madrid man has struggled at the Emirates Stadium because of his form and fitness issues.

Rice was sensational for the North Londoners last season but he needs more support in the midfield and Merino is someone who can provide that but it remains to be seen if they will go ahead with the transfer.

The signings of Rice, Kai Havertz, Martin Odegaard have all shown that the Gunners are ready to invest in the players with a long term plan.

Arsenal need a midfielder like Mikel Merino in their team

Merino is currently in his peak years as as footballer and at the age of 28, his ability to improve and his longevity is something that is concerning the Gunners.

Arsenal should go ahead with the signing of Merino as the player would provide them experience and bring a much needed quality that is missing in their midfield.

He would help them break opposition’s attacks and provide them strength and physicality in their midfield.

League titles are won with youth and experience and he can provide them experience that they need in their team.