Arsenal have signed Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad.

Arsenal have completed the signing of Spain midfielder Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad on a four-year contract, with the option to extend for an additional year. The deal is reported to be worth £27.4 million upfront, plus potential add-ons totaling £4.2 million.

Merino, a key player for Spain’s Euro 2024-winning squad, was a long-time target for Arsenal. Manager Mikel Arteta expressed enthusiasm about the new addition:

“Mikel brings exceptional quality, experience, and versatility to our team. His proven track record at both club and international levels speaks for itself,” Arteta said on the club’s website.

“He will significantly strengthen our squad with his technical prowess and positive, strong character. As demonstrated by his performances during the Euros, Mikel is a winner, and we are thrilled to welcome him and his family to Arsenal. We look forward to working with him.”

Mikel Merino is Arsenal’s fourth signing of the transfer window, following the permanent acquisition of goalkeeper David Raya from Brentford, Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori, and Tommy Setford.

Merino brings Premier League experience from his time at Newcastle in 2018, before moving to Real Sociedad, where he made 242 appearances. Previously with Borussia Dortmund, Merino has also earned 28 caps for Spain and scored the decisive goal in the Euro 2024 quarter-final against Germany.