Mikel Arteta holds secret talks with Arsenal transfer target amid Barca interest

Mikel Arteta is willing to bolster his midfield options this coming season and has been linked to various names in the summer transfer window.

Arsenal want to bolster their options in midfield after releasing Mohamed Elneny at the end of his contract. Thomas Partey has also been linked with a move out of Emirates Stadium.

Topping the list of players linked to Arsenal is Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino who is also a target for Spanish giant Barcelona.

However, Arteta is not leaving any stone unturned as he reportedly took the deal upon himself so as to beat off the interest from Barcelona.

Merino only has one year left on his contract and his club are resigned to losing him this summer, with Arsenal and Barcelona the most likely destinations.

Reports from Spain say that Merino does not want to sign a new contract with Real Sociedad and that a move is therefore very likely, with €25million (£21m) the suggested fee.

According to Catalan outlet Sport , Arteta has taken it upon himself to call the 28-year-old and give his pitch personally. The Gunners boss is desperate to land him and has explained the ‘big plans’ he has for him.

Merino is currently away on international duty with Spain at Euro 2024 – and played in their 1-0 win over Albania on Monday night – so negotiations could be more difficult.

The 28-year-old enjoyed an outstanding season at Real Sociedad, contributing eight goals and five assists in 45 appearances across all competitions.

He has now won 24 caps for Spain and having previously turned out for Newcastle in the 2017/18 campaign, he is might be making a return.