Report – €30m-rated midfielder not ruling out Barcelona move but Arsenal favourites

Mikel Merino emerged as a serious target for Barcelona earlier this summer, especially given that he fills the defensive midfielder void that the club has struggled to fill in recent years.

While the Blaugrana did begin moving files to probe his signing, the operation was eventually cancelled as they opted to prioritise the arrivals of Nico Williams and Dani Olmo.

Now, a month into the transfer window, Barcelona have not signed either Spanish forward and their situation could well reopen the doors for Merino’s arrival.

Still undecided

As reported by Mundo Deportivo, Merino is currently back training with Real Sociedad ahead of the new league season. His future, however, appears far from the Basque country.

The midfielder has ruled out the option of renewing with Real Sociedad for the time being and is focused on securing a departure.

On that front, the Barcelona option remains open. The Blaugrana are no longer the top contenders for his signing but he is alert to the club’s advances and would not be opposed to the move.

If indeed Nico and Olmo do not arrive, Barcelona can thus look to utilise the funds for another position in dire need of reinforcement.

Arsenal in pole position

The Spanish outlet further adds that Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, as it stands, are in pole position to sign the Spanish midfielder.

The Gunners’ coach is a big fan of Merino’s profile and the English side are thus expected to launch an offensive for his signing this week.

Real Sociedad demand €30 million for his transfer and an agreement does not seem far. Barcelona, thus, must decide soon if they are to jump into negotiations.