Real Sociedad have rejected Arsenal’s first offer for Mikel Merino but talks continuing

La Liga club Real Sociedad have rejected the first official offer from Arsenal for Spain international midfielder Mikel Merino, according to Radio Marca journalist Yon Cuezva.

Both clubs recently started formal talks over the 28-year-old, but as reported yesterday, they are far apart in their valuation of the player.

La Real have knocked back the unnamed bid from Arsenal but talks are continuing as the midfielder wants to link up with the North London club having been convinced by manager Mikel Arteta.

The Gunners are looking to part with around €25 million for Merino as they believe that is a fair price for a player whose contract is expiring next summer, and they would also prefer to spread any agreed valuation over three years.

However, Sociedad are holding out for €35m and they want much more of the fee up front.

They have already frustrated Liverpool after the Reds attempted to lure Martin Zubimendi, with the former Arsenal target now set to remain in Spain despite coming very close to leaving.

Sociedad will be looking to frustrate the Gunners too in their bid to land Merino and will likely hold out for a fee very close to their asking price for a deal to work out.

Arsenal will have to significantly improve their next offer if they want the Euro 2024 star, and a new bid is expected in the coming days.

However, whether the North Londoners can wrap things up quickly and get Merino in before their Premier League opener against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday remains to be seen.