Mikel Merino is a name that is currently buzzing among Arsenal fans as the club edges closer to signing the midfielder(as per Fabrizio Romano). But who is this player that has captured the attention of those at the Emirates?
The 28-year-old who currently plays for Real Sociedad has experience of playing in both England and Germany. Having played earlier for Newcastle United and Borussia Dortmund, it is safe to say that the Spaniard is filled with talent.
To put it simply, Merino is the type of player that the Gunners have been crying out for since the departure of Granit Xhaka. The Swiss international was able to create a seamless synergy on the left-hand side of the attack that has been missing since he left for Bayer Leverkusen.
Having the Sociedad midfield maestro play in this position will go a long way in solving the problems Arsenal tend to have on the left side of their midfield three. Last season, Mikel Arteta attempted to use Kai Havertz in this role, but it became clear that the German was best suited further forward.
Though Declan Rice can play in this position, it takes away his best qualities which can be best seen at the base of the midfield. Hence, the pursuit of Merino makes a lot more sense and though some might be skeptical due to his age, he is a fantastic footballer.
The primary attributes of the Spaniard are the way he can protect the defence yet contribute going forward. His excellent aerial ability makes him a threat on both ends of the pitch. This was evidenced at the recently concluded Euros where the Sociedad player scored a goal in extra time to knock Germany out.
Another problem that the Gunners had last season was that they could not get the best out of Gabriel Martinelli. This was primarily because the winger had no one to rotate with and that is where the Spanish international comes in.
With the full-back inverting, it gives the midfielder a chance of overlap or underlap based on where the winger is present. The former Newcastle player has an innate understanding of reading his teammates’ runs and moves accordingly.
Overall, it might seem like a significant investment on a player that is nearing 30 but Merino could very well become one of the smartest signings of the summer. The Spaniard is capable of preventing transitions and can arrive in the box at the right time to make a difference. It is exciting to see what Arteta could potentially do with such a player.
Read More: Arsenal in negotiations over future of Mikel Arteta, claims Romano
