Arsenal has yet to present an official bid for Mikel Merino, focusing instead on finalizing Riccardo Calafiori’s transfer. The Gunners are keen on bolstering their squad with these strategic moves.
- Arsenal has not made an official bid for Mikel Merino yet.
- Formal contacts for Merino are expected to begin soon.
- Calafiori’s transfer to Arsenal is in the finalization stages with medical tests scheduled.
Arsenal’s Interest in Mikel Merino
Arsenal is keen on bolstering their midfield by targeting Real Sociedad’s Mikel Merino. The Spanish midfielder has been pivotal for his club with his robust defensive and offensive contributions. As per Fabrizio Romano’s tweet:
🔴⚪️ Arsenal have still not presented any official bid for Mikel Merino as their focus was on sealing Calafiori deal.
Formal contacts for new midfielder will start in the next days with Merino in the list, approaches took place on player side.
More to follow. https://t.co/NcwqgFE5h1
pic.twitter.com— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano)
October 19, 2023
Merino, who joined Real Sociedad from Newcastle United for €12 million in 2018, has quickly established himself as a key player. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with Arsenal now showing appreciation for his skills and potential.
Merino’s Background and Career
Born on June 22, 1996, in Pamplona, Spain, Mikel Merino stands at 1.89 meters and plays as a central midfielder. His journey began in the youth ranks of Osasuna before making significant impacts at Borussia Dortmund, Newcastle United, and Real Sociedad.
At Real Sociedad, Merino has continued to develop, showcasing his talent and increasing his market value to €50 million as of June 2024. His current contract with Real Sociedad runs until June 30, 2025, and he has earned 28 caps for the Spanish national team, scoring 2 goals.
Career Statistics and Transfer History
Merino has been a consistent performer, notably playing over 150 matches for Real Sociedad, scoring 15+ goals, and providing 20+ assists. His transfer history includes:
- Real Sociedad: Joined from Newcastle United for €12 million in 2018.
- Newcastle United: Joined from Borussia Dortmund for €8 million in 2017.
- Borussia Dortmund: Joined from Osasuna for €3.75 million in 2016.
- Osasuna: Promoted from the youth team in 2014.
Riccardo Calafiori Nears Arsenal Move
Riccardo Calafiori, the young Italian left-back, is on the verge of joining Arsenal. After a successful stint with FC Basel, Calafiori is set to bring his defensive prowess and offensive contributions to the Premier League. According to internal sources, Arsenal is finalizing the transfer details, with medical tests scheduled soon.
Calafiori’s Background and Career
Born on May 19, 2002, in Rome, Italy, Riccardo Calafiori stands at 1.85 meters and plays as a left-back. His journey began in the youth ranks of AS Roma before making significant impacts at FC Basel.
At FC Basel, Calafiori has continued to develop, showcasing his talent and increasing his market value to €7 million as of July 2024. His current contract with FC Basel runs until June 30, 2025.
Career Statistics and Transfer History
Calafiori has been a consistent performer, notably playing over 40 matches for FC Basel, scoring 3 goals, and providing 5 assists. His transfer history includes:
- FC Basel: Joined from AS Roma for €4 million in 2022.
- AS Roma: Promoted from the youth team in 2018.
Arsenal’s Strategic Moves
Arsenal’s simultaneous interest in Mikel Merino and Riccardo Calafiori underscores their strategy to reinforce both midfield and defense. Merino’s experience and versatility paired with Calafiori’s potential make them ideal targets for the Gunners. The next few days will be critical as Arsenal formalizes its approach for these players.
For more insights into Arsenal’s transfer strategies, check out:
