Arsenal had two concerns about Mikel Merino before securing his contract during the summer transfer window.
The Spaniard signed a deal worth £27.4 million, putting pen to paper on a four-year contract. The Gunners boss was keen to sign Merino from Real Sociedad to add a player who combined an attacking threat with the ability to win games.
Kai Havertz and Declan Rice were deemed not to be the ideal fit for the left side of Arteta's third midfield, and Arsenal were confident of signing Merino despite their concerns. The north London side had reservations about the former Newcastle ace's age, 28, and the slim chance they could make a return on their investment in the future, according to the Athletic.
Merino saw his start at the Emirates interrupted by a shoulder injury and has been sporadically included in Arteta's starting XI. However, the Arsenal star believes he is starting to find his feet in north London.
“Everything is starting to click,” he said last week. 'I'm starting to understand everything perfectly.
“I know the rhythms in the team. I'm starting to build a relationship with everyone on a deeper level, and that takes time.”
Merino was added to the Arsenal squad in the hope of adding a winning mentality to the squad and despite concerns over his resale trap, the club were happy with the fee paid for his services. It was during the Merino negotiations that Arteta's side reignited his club and international teammate Martin Zubimendi.
Arsenal now appear to have won the race to sign the 25-year-old midfielder. The Euro 2024 winner is now expected to take office in the summer, while Jorginho and Thomas Partey's contracts currently expire at the end of the season.
Zubimendi was on the verge of joining Liverpool this summer before a late change of heart. The north London side have now benefited and despite being thwarted in their attempts to land the star this month, Real Sociedad are likely to complete a deal at the end of the season.
Although Zubimendi has a £51million release clause, Arsenal are unable to force a deal this month. The club's restrictions on profit and sustainability rules mean La Liga will play a decisive role in agreeing the structure of payment terms in a deal.
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