Arsenal have completed the signing of Euro 2024 winner Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad, adding significant depth and experience to their midfield.
According to details, the Spain international midfielder has joined the Gunners for an initial fee of 32 million euros ($36 million, £27 million), with potential add-ons amounting to an additional five million euros.
"Mikel is a player who will bring us huge quality with his experience and versatility," said Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. "He has played at the top of the game at both club and international level for a number of seasons now. Mikel will make our squad significantly stronger, with his technical ability, together with his strong and positive character and personality."
Merino played a crucial role in Spain's Euro 2024 campaign, including scoring the decisive goal in the quarter-final victory against Germany. The 28-year-old midfielder has been with Real Sociedad for the past six years but is no stranger to English football, having spent the 2017/18 season at Newcastle United.
Merino is Arsenal's second major signing of the transfer window, following the arrival of Italian international defender Riccardo Calafiori. Additionally, goalkeeper David Raya's loan from Brentford was made permanent.
"Mikel was a key target for us this summer," said Arsenal's sporting director Edu. "We identified him as a player who can fit perfectly into our squad and profile to improve us, as we aim to build on our strong performances of last season. He brings us added quality, experience, physicality, and athleticism as we look forward to the season ahead."
After finishing as runners-up to Manchester City in the last two Premier League seasons, Arsenal is determined to challenge for the title and end their long wait since 2003/04 to lift the trophy.
