Arsenal 'book medical and contract signing' for today as rivals prepare offer for unwanted star

Arsenal are expected to wrap up a deal for Mikel Merino in the coming days with a medical now reportedly likely to take place. The Gunners have been working to sign the Euro 2024 winner for at least a month with talks rumbling on between them and Real Sociedad.

The La Liga club always knew they would have to sell Merino if he decided on a move due to the midfielder having just one year remaining on his current contract. But well aware of Merino’s quality, they have stuck to their guns and taken a very tough approach to negotiations.

Despite initial reports that Arsenal would be able to get Merino for between £20million and £25million, La Real have managed to get an extra £2million or so in the upfront fee plus a further £4.2million in add-ons.

Fabrizio Romano has tweeted: “Mikel Merino to Arsenal, here we go! Verbal agreement in place for Spanish midfielder to join Gunners. €32m plus €5m add-ons with favorable payment terms. Contract until 2028. Arsenal were closing in on Merino deal since end of July, Merino only wanted Arsenal.”

He added: “Similar to the Riccardo Calafiori story, Mikel Arteta has been crucial also for Merino’s move to Arsenal. Positive talks with the player, Merino had at least two more proposals but he’s been clear. He’s set to travel for medical, signing until 2028 + option.”

Arteta did not give much of an update on the situation in his Friday press conference, simply saying that the transfer will take place ‘soon’. Romano has since tweeted: “Mikel Merino, on his way to London today as planned! He’s travelling to England in order to complete his move to Arsenal, medical tests and contract signing booked. Deal until June 2028 plus option until 2029.”

Ramsdale latest

Elsewhere at the Emirates Stadium, goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale continues to search for a new club. According to Sky Sports, newly promoted Southampton are preparing a loan bid for the England goalkeeper, but they are likely to see their offer knocked back.

Arsenal have already rejected loan approaches from both Ajax and Wolves over recent weeks, making it clear they want a permanent sale as they look to balance their spending this summer. The issues is that few will meet their more than £20million asking price, and a loan with an option - perhaps mandatory - to buy may be the best the Gunners can hope for with the deadline closing in.