Spain international midfielder Mikel Merino has
joined Arsenal Football Club from La Liga side Real Sociedad on a four year
contract deal worth £27.4m that could rise to £31.6m.
Mikel Arteta who is the manager of Arsenal FC,
said: “Mikel is a player who will bring us huge quality with his experience and
versatility. He has played at the top of the game at both club and
international level for a number of seasons now.
“Mikel will make our squad significantly stronger,
with his technical ability, together with his strong and positive character and
personality.”
"As we all saw in the summer, Mikel is also a
winner, with his strong performances throughout the Euros helping Spain win the
tournament.
"We are delighted to welcome Mikel and his
family to the club and can’t wait to start working with him.”
The 28 year old player will wear the number 23
shirt and will immediately join up with his new teammates at London Colney
ahead of Saturday's clash with Brighton at the Emirates.
Mikel started his football career with Osasuna B
before he later joined the senior team in 2014, he also played with Borussia
Dortmud between 2016-2017 and was subsequently on loan to Newcastle United in
2017 before joining the Newcastle United fully in the same year. Mikel later
went to Real Sociedad in year 2018 before his official signing to Arsenal FC in
2024.