Barcelona wary of Arsenal in the race to sign La Liga star: Reports

Barcelona and Arsenal are reportedly both interested in signing Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino this summer transfer window. The central midfielder impressed during the 2023-24 season and has attracted interest from multiple teams.

Barcelona are likely to part ways with Oriol Romeu, who failed to impress after arriving from Southampton last summer. They are, hence, looking to strengthen their midfield this summer and believe Merino will be a good fit.

The Spaniard made 45 appearances for Real Sociedad last season, scoring eight goals and providing five assists. Overall, he’s made 242 appearances for them, recording 27 goals and 30 assists. With just one year left on his contract, Barcelona are looking to bring him to Camp Nou.

However, Arsenal are also interested in Merino, who also has some experience in English football. He spent one year on loan at Newcastle United from Borussia Dortmund in 2017 before joining the English club in the summer of 2018. He, however, joined Real Sociedad just a few days later. He made 25 appearances for the Magpies, registering one goal and one assist.

Arsenal are looking to bring him back to English football but their potential approach to sign him will depend on Thomas Partey’s future. The midfielder has been linked with a move away this summer.

Also Read: Real Sociedad May Sell Striker Umar Sadiq Amid Injury Woes

Thomas Partey says he’s happy at Arsenal

While Thomas Partey has been linked with a departure from the Emirates, he suggested earlier this season that he is happy at Arsenal. When asked aboutt his future, he said (via TeamTalk):

“My head is always here. This is where I choose to play, I’m really happy every time I’m on the field.”

“I know a lot of speculation has been going on, but for me, I’m really happy to be here and to continue playing for this club. With my contract, I still have to the end of the season, I think. I have to do my best and try to perform at the highest level and I think the most important is to be available every time.”

Partey joined the Gunners from Atletico Madrid in 2020 and has made 115 appearances since, scoring five goals and providing four assists. Due to multiple injury issues, he made just 16 appearances across competitions last season.

Partey’s contract with the north London side expires in 2025 and they will look to cash in on him this summer. If they do so, then Arsenal are also likely to move in for Mikel Merino, which could lead to a transfer battle with Barcelona.

However, a move is likely to happen after UEFA Euro 2024, where Merino is currently competing with Spain.

Also Read: Liverpool plot ambitious deal for Real Madrid pair