The dust is settling on a much-anticipated transfer in Spanish soccer. According to Noticias de Gipuzkoa, a local media outlet, Real Sociedad midfielder Merino has bid a fond farewell to his teammates this morning, marking the end of his career at Real Sociedad. Although the official transfer announcement has not yet been released, multiple sources have confirmed that Merino's next stop will be English Premier League giants Arsenal.
Arsenal are said to be paying a transfer fee of up to €33.5 million to bring in the talented Spanish midfielder, with a €5 million float clause attached in recognition of Merino's potential contribution on the pitch. The two sides have also agreed on a four-year contract with the option of a one-year extension, providing enough security and flexibility for Merino's future at Arsenal.
Merino personally went to Real Sociedad's training base this morning to say goodbye to all those teammates who had fought alongside him. This day is both an end and a new beginning for him. As a member of Real Sociedad, he left countless good memories and wonderful moments; and as a player who will soon join Arsenal, he is full of anticipation to meet new challenges and opportunities.
