Arsenal confirm 28yo star as third summer signing

Arsenal have confirmed midfielder Mikel Merino as their third signing of the summer transfer window.

The Gunners started negotiations with Real Sociedad for the Spaniard earlier this month and they have eventually secured his signature.

The 28-year-old has signed an initial four-year deal with an option for another year. He could be in the matchday squad against Brighton.

Merino is a central midfielder by trade, but he can also operate from the number six role. He is expected to provide strong competition.

Aside from Merino, the Gunners have recruited David Raya (loan to permanent deal) and Riccardo Calafiori in the current window.

They are expected to make more signings before the transfer deadline. A versatile winger is a priority, but there are no stand-out targets.

Nico Williams is hugely admired by Gunners boss Mikel Arteta, but the Spaniard is reluctant to leave Athletic Bilbao this summer.

Bayern Munich's Kingsley Coman could emerge as an alternative. The Gunners are yet to make any contact for the Frenchman.