Arsenal’s pursuit of Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino has hit a snag, with a fresh report revealing a major issue that is now delaying the completion of the deal. Despite the Gunners’ strong interest in the Spanish midfielder, the two clubs are struggling to reach an agreement over the transfer fee.
According to sources close to the negotiations, Real Sociedad is holding out for a fee in excess of €35m, while Arsenal is unwilling to pay more than €25m. This significant discrepancy has brought talks to a standstill, with neither side willing to budge.
The report suggests that Arsenal’s hesitation to meet Real Sociedad’s asking price is due to concerns over Merino’s injury record. The 27-year-old has struggled with fitness issues in the past, and the Gunners are wary of committing to a large transfer fee for a player who may not be able to contribute consistently.
Furthermore, the report highlights that Real Sociedad is under no pressure to sell Merino, with the player still having two years remaining on his contract. The Spanish club is willing to wait for the right offer, and Arsenal’s reluctance to meet their asking price has given them the upper hand in negotiations.
This development will come as a disappointment to Arsenal fans, who had been excited about the prospect of Merino joining the club. The midfielder’s impressive performances for Real Sociedad had made him a top target for the Gunners, who are looking to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season.
Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, is a long-time admirer of Merino and believes he would be a valuable addition to the team. However, the club’s hierarchy is unwilling to overpay for the player, and the negotiations have now reached an impasse.
The report also suggests that Arsenal may be forced to consider alternative targets if the Merino deal cannot be revived. The Gunners have been linked with several other midfielders, including Leicester City’s Youri Tielemans and Manchester City’s Kalvin Phillips.
In conclusion, the major issue delaying Arsenal from completing the Merino deal is the significant discrepancy between the two clubs’ valuations of the player. While Arsenal is unwilling to pay more than €25m, Real Sociedad is holding out for a fee in excess of €35m. This impasse has brought talks to a standstill, and it remains to be seen whether the deal can be revived or if Arsenal will be forced to consider alternative targets.
