With the signing of Riccardo Calafiori imminent Arsenal are already setting their sights on the next transfer target.

According to renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano the Gunners are poised to step up their interest in Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino.

Merino who impressed at Euro 2024 is expected to leave Real Sociedad this season and Arsenal have already made contact with his representatives about a potential move to North London. The response was positive paving the way for further talks.

However Romano notes that the success of the deal depends on Real Sociedad asking price given that Merino has only one year left on his current contract.

Despite this Arsenal are keen to bring the midfielder to the Emirates and manager Mikel Arteta is expected to make a strong push to convince him to join.