Mikel Merino Completes £31.6m Transfer to Arsenal, Recreates Childhood Dream in Gunners' Colors

Mikel Merino posted a childhood photo of himself rocking an Arsenal shirt from 2004.

Mikel Merino's transfer to Arsenal marks a significant chapter in his career, with the midfielder joining the Gunners from Real Sociedad for a fee that could rise to £31.6 million, including add-ons.

Merino has signed a four-year contract with an option to extend for an additional year. This move to the Premier League comes after an impressive stint at Real Sociedad, where he made 242 appearances and scored 23 goals since joining the club in 2018.

Merino’s connection to Arsenal is deeper than just this transfer. As a child, he posed for photos in an Arsenal kit, a moment that has now come full circle with his official signing. His return to London is also notable as he had a brief spell in the Premier League with Newcastle United before moving to Spain.

Internationally, Merino was a crucial part of Spain's squad during the 2024 European Championship, where he played in every match and even scored a dramatic 119th-minute winner in the quarter-final against Germany. His contributions were vital to Spain's successful campaign, which saw them lift the trophy.