Arsenal strengthen midfield with Merino signing from Real Sociedad

Euro 2024-winning midfielder Mikel Merino joined Arsenal on Tuesday after agreeing to a move from Real Sociedad.

The 28-year-old signed a four-year contract following a €32.5-million transfer that could rise to €37.5 million after add-ons, according to BBC Sport.

"Mikel was a key target for us this summer, and we identified him as a player who can fit perfectly into our squad and (has the) profile to improve us, as we aim to build on our strong performances of last season," Arsenal sporting director Edu said in a statement.

"With Mikel's arrival, he brings us an added high quality of experience, physicality, and athleticism as we look forward to this season ahead."

Merino will wear the No. 23 shirt and immediately compete for game time with Declan Rice and Thomas Partey.

The Spaniard spent the 2017-18 season with Newcastle United, where a clause in his initial loan switch from Borussia Dortmund made his move permanent after just a few months. Then-Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez used Merino sparingly, handing almost 1,000 more Premier League minutes to Jonjo Shelvey in central midfield. Merino was transferred to Real Sociedad at the end of that campaign.

Since returning to his homeland, Merino established himself as a vital member of the Real Sociedad team, making 242 appearances for the club while earning 28 Spain caps.

"Mikel will make our squad significantly stronger, with his technical ability, together with his strong and positive character and personality," Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said.

"As we all saw in the summer, Mikel is also a winner, with his strong performances throughout the Euros, helping Spain win the tournament."