Transfer Talk: Euros winner Merino to pick Arsenal or Villa

Posted Monday, July 15, 2024 by ESPN

Arsenal and Aston Villa are battling it out for the signature of Euro 2024 winner Mikel Merino, according to Mundo Deportivo.

The Spain international enjoyed an impressive campaign with Real Sociedad last season, notching eight goals and five assists across 45 appearances in all competitions, which has alerted several clubs in Europe to his situation this summer.

Merino, 28, is under contract with Sociedad for just one more year, which leaves the Spanish club in a difficult situation. They have already offered the playmaker a new deal, which has not yet been accepted, and La Real fear they could lose Merino as a free agent next year. Therefore, a departure could be on the cards to ensure they receive a fee, with a release clause of €60 million reportedly ready to be triggered.

Alongside both Arsenal and Villa, the report suggests that Merino also has further admirers in LALIGA. Barcelona and Atletico Madrid have showcased an interest, with the report revealing that new Barca manager Hansi Flick is an admirer of the midfielder.

A move to Arsenal could prove the most tempting for Merino, though, as he previously played alongside Gunners captain Martin Odegaard at Sociedad in the 2019-20 season.

Mikel Merino, 28, won the European Championship with Spain on Sunday.