Arsenal favourites to sign Spanish star as Barcelona cool interest

Arsenal are favourites to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino with Barcelona cooling their pursuit, according to Sport.

Merino has been heavily linked with both clubs over the past few weeks, but the Blaugrana are now looking at other priorities.

The Catalan giants are keen on landing Nico Williams and Dani Olmo at the moment and a new midfielder is not on their radar.

Even if they want one, it would depend on Frenkie de Jong heading for the exit door during the ongoing transfer window.

Hence, it seems impossible that Merino will join them and Sport claim that Arsenal are the favourite destination for him.

Merino has already played in the Premier League with Newcastle United and he could be tempted to return to England.

The midfielder may have a point to prove, having barely made an impression during his one-year spell at Newcastle.

Merino is available for just £21m with his contract expiring next summer.