Arsenal, Atletico Madrid and Barcelona will compete for Mikel Merino’s position, according to a report

Arsenal FC are starting to warm up their engines in the race to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino. Atletico Madrid and FC Barcelona are interested in the player, but neither have made a definitive move, paving the way for the Gunners to make their offer.

According to transfer reporter Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal are finalising a deal with Bologna’s Riccardo Calafiori before signing Merino. The interest is there, but they have not yet done anything. Arsenal are expected to start holding talks to sign him later this week.

Barcelona had hoped Atletico would be their main rivals for the Euro 2024 title, but it turns out that it could be the London club who pose the biggest threat. Reports coming out of England are optimistic that the midfielder is interested in joining Mikel Arteta’s project.