Arsenal will pursue Real Sociedad and Spain midfielder Mikel Merino after completing the signing of Riccardo Calafiori, according to reports.
Mikel Arteta is reportedly closing in on for an initial £38million.
The Italian international helped Bologna qualify for the Champions League for the first time last season and impressed for his country at Euro 2024.
The Gunners business will be far from done with Calafiori as Arteta reportedly targets a new midfielder and attacker.
There are also expected to be several outgoings at amidst interest in Hale End graduates Eddie Nketiah, Reiss Nelson and Emile Smith Rowe, while Aaron Ramsdale could also leave.
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Sociedad star Merino is believed to be a top target, with his club and Spain team-mate Martin Zubimendi also linked.
Zubimendi is believed to be very happy where he is and has a £51m release clause. Merino, meanwhile, is out of contract next year and open to a summer transfer.
Arsenal are not the only club interested in signing the ex-Newcastle United midfielder, who is also attracting interest from Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.
Arsenal will focus all efforts on Spain star after signing Calafiori
However, reports in Spain suggest Merino is not convinced by Atletico s project and Barcelona are currently working on other priorities, starting with Arsenal-linked Athletic Club winger Nico Williams.
Dani Olmo is a higher priority than Merino as well, leaving Arsenal in a strong position to land Merino this summer.
When the Calafiori deal is confirmed, Arsenal will focus all of their efforts on signing the 28-year-old .
Merino will cost around 25-30 million euros (£21-25m) and Arteta sees no problem with Sociedad s asking price and director of football Edu Gaspar is expected to approach the player when Calafiori is signed.
Meanwhile, a report from CaughtOffside journalist Matteo Moretto states that Merino will not sign a new contract at Sociedad but is eager for the La Liga club to receive a good fee this summer.
