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Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino is keen on joining Arsenal this summer amid interest from Atletico Madrid, according to AS.
The Spaniard has entered the last year of his contract at Sociedad and he is widely expected to secure a new challenge away from the club.
Atletico have tried to sign him over the past few week, but AS claim that the midfielder has turned down advances from Diego Simeone's side.
Instead, he would be delighted to join the Gunners in the Premier League.
Merino previously had a single year with Newcastle United and he is reportedly keen on proving himself in the English top-flight.
The 28-year-old has already spoken with manager Mikel Arteta and he is looking forward to joining the Gunners in the current window.
Arsenal will have to pay around £26 million to sign Merino, who has already agreed personal terms on a four-year deal with the club.
Merino could be the Gunners' third major signing of the transfer window after the purchases of David Raya and Riccardo Calafiori.
Written by Sri Aswin
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