Arsenal’s £25m Move for Mikel Merino Could Derail West Ham’s Next Transfer Target
Arsenal is making significant strides toward signing Real Sociedad star Mikel Merino, having agreed on personal terms. The Gunners' £25m bid was rejected, but negotiations continue, potentially impacting West Ham’s transfer plans. If Merino moves to the Emirates, Sociedad may pursue PSG's Carlos Soler, a target for West Ham, complicating their summer transfer strategy. Will Arsenal's pursuit of Merino disrupt West Ham’s plans? Stay updated on this developing transfer saga.
Arsenal is closing in on a major transfer coup by agreeing to personal terms with Real Sociedad's Mikel Merino. The Spanish midfielder has expressed his desire to join the Premier League, with Arsenal leading the race to bring him to the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners recently had a £25 million bid rejected, as Sociedad is holding out for £30 million for the Euro 2024 winner. However, Arsenal remains determined to finalize the deal, which could have significant repercussions for London rivals West Ham.
West Ham, under the management of Julen Lopetegui, has been active in the transfer market this summer. The Hammers have been linked with PSG midfielder Carlos Soler, a player Lopetegui is keen to bring to the London Stadium. Soler, valued at £17 million, is also on the radar of Real Sociedad, who are considering him as a replacement if Merino moves to Arsenal.
The potential signing of Merino by Arsenal could trigger Sociedad to make a decisive move for Soler, putting West Ham’s transfer plans in jeopardy. Fabrizio Romano, a well-known transfer expert, confirmed that West Ham is seriously considering Soler as one of their top targets this summer. However, with Sociedad entering the fray, the competition for Soler's signature could intensify.
Romano highlighted West Ham’s impressive work in the transfer window so far, managing to secure several key players despite challenging negotiations. However, the pursuit of Soler could prove to be another tough battle, especially if Sociedad accelerates their efforts following Merino’s departure.
As the transfer window progresses, Arsenal’s pursuit of Mikel Merino could have a ripple effect across the Premier League, potentially disrupting West Ham's plans to strengthen their midfield. The outcome of these negotiations will be crucial in determining the final rosters for both Arsenal and West Ham as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Stay tuned as this transfer saga unfolds, with both clubs looking to finalize their squads before the window closes.
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