Arsenal are closing in on securing the services of Mikel Merino, a versatile midfielder from Real Sociedad. The deal is reportedly set at around €33.5 million, with an additional €5 million in bonuses. At 28, Merino brings experience and quality to the north Londoners, having won the European Championship with Spain and spent time in some of Europe’s top leagues.
Merino has already agreed to a four-year contract with Arsenal, which includes an option for a fifth year. The plan is for him to immediately become a part of the first team, possibly slotting into the starting lineup soon after his arrival. With his ability to play in various midfield roles, he adds both depth and flexibility to the Gunners’ squad. His arrival could shake up the dynamics in midfield, and fans are eagerly anticipating how he will fit into Mikel Arteta’s tactical plans.
Probable jersey number of Mikel Merino at Arsenal
One interesting question that remains is what shirt number Merino will wear at Arsenal. Throughout his career, he has worn several numbers, and each of them holds a bit of history for the Spanish midfielder.
Starting with his early days at Osasuna, Merino donned the number 32 before switching to number 8 during the 2014/15 season. This number stuck with him until his move to Borussia Dortmund in 2016, where he was given the 24 shirt. After a season in Germany, Merino moved to Newcastle United, where he wore the number 23. When he later transferred to Real Sociedad, he reverted to the number 8, which he has held since joining the Spanish side in 2018.
At Arsenal, the number 8 shirt is currently occupied by captain Martin Odegaard, so that option is off the table. There was some speculation that Odegaard might switch to his preferred number 10, but with Emile Smith Rowe no longer with the club and that move not happening, the number 10 shirt remains available. This could be an option for Merino, though it may not be his ideal choice.
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Other available options include the number 13, which is likely to go to goalkeeper Joan Garcia if Aaron Ramsdale leaves the club. The number 14 could also become available if Eddie Nketiah departs, but that seems less likely to happen before Merino arrives. Additionally, the number 15 might open up if Jakub Kiwior moves on, and Reiss Nelson’s number 23 could also be in contention if Nelson exits. Given Merino’s history with the number 23 at Newcastle, this might be a number he could return to at Arsenal.
Finally, there’s the number 16, which is currently free and could be another potential option for Merino. With several possibilities on the table, it remains to be seen which number the Spaniard will choose.
Merino’s imminent arrival at Arsenal adds another layer of quality to an already talented squad. The midfielder’s ability to operate in multiple roles could make him a vital piece of Arteta’s plans. While the shirt number he will wear is still up for debate, what is certain is that Merino’s presence will be felt on the pitch. If Arsenal can integrate him quickly, this could be a shrewd piece of business for the Gunners. His addition might just be the boost they need to challenge for major honors this season.
