Real Madrid Identify Arsenal's Mikel Merino As New Midfield Option

According to Fichajes, Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino is reportedly being watched closely by Real Madrid as the club continues to assess new midfielder options ahead of the upcoming transfer windows. 

The 30-year-old signed for Arsenal in the summer of 2024 from Real Sociedad for just under £32 million including add ons after impressing in Spain's Euro 2024 triumph in Germany. He is contracted to the Gunners until 2028.

Despite Real Madrid showing an interest, there are currently no negotiations taking place between the two clubs regarding a move for Merino. Jose Mourinho's side are purely considering which midfielders to add to their already talented selection. 

The Spain international has proven to be extremely versatile for Arsenal since his move. He has been used predominantly in midfield but has impressed hugely in more advanced roles such as the attacking midfielder position and striker. Mikel Arteta has developed a trust in Merino to fill such roles when key players like Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard pick up continual injuries. 

Merino has scored sixteen goals for the Premier League champions in all competition during his two years at the club so far. Some of those were hugely important. He scored the third in Arsenal's 3-0 victory over Real Madrid in 2025, he scored the winner against Chelsea in March last year and he scored the equaliser at Stamford Bridge to secure the Gunners' a crucial point away from home in November last season. 

What also makes Merino such an appealing option for Los Blancos is his experience playing in Spain and what he has achieved with the national side. He has contributed significantly to the recent success of Spain scoring crucial goals which helped them to a Euros, Nations League and a World Cup all in the past three years. He has played in La Liga for multiple seasons prior to his move to North London spending six seasons with Real Sociedad. 

According to TransferMarkt, Merino is valued at €25 million but if Arsenal were to sell, Fichajes are claiming that a fee of around €30 million - €40 million could twist Arsenal's arm. For now, Real Madrid's interest is at an early stage and if they were to make Merino a concrete target then Arsenal would have to consider if they would be happy to sell the Spanish midfielder.

As it stands, there is no indication Merino is seeking an exit or Arsenal are open to selling.