Marco Verratti is on Arsenal’s transfer wishlist as alternative to Mikel Merino

Sportsdunia Desk August 16, 2024August 16, 2024 Arsenal, Arsenal transfer news, Marco Verratti, Mikel Arteta, Mikel Merino

Arsenal’s pursuit of Mikel Merino has reached a standstill, with the club still in negotiations with Real Sociedad to reach a mutually beneficial deal. The 28-year-old has made his way to the top of the wishlist for Mikel Arteta this summer. However, another wonderful opportunity has arisen in the transfer market which might make the London club reconsider its approach.

🚨 Arsenal stepping up efforts to sign Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad. Talks ongoing + Edu has been in Spain this week to pursue agreement. Personal terms for 28yo midfielder no issue. Likely needs an exit from #AFC, whether before or after @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/MrXezo5sit
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) August 14, 2024

As per the English journalist, Graeme Bailey, Marco Verratti is keen on a move back to Europe and has been offered to Arsenal along with Premier League rivals, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Liverpool. The 31-year-old is still potent enough to find a crucial place on the Arsenal side, which is aiming for multiple silverware in the upcoming season. A potential transfer for the Italian will be a better financial option than Mikel Merino.

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Marco Verratti’s travels currently involve him playing football in Qatar with Al-Arabi. The midfielder is renowned for his time with Paris Saint-Germain from 2012-2023. While in Paris, he was able to establish himself as one of the finest deep-lying midfielders in the world. Arsenal will need to be swift to capture Verratti’s signature considering the interest from fellow league rivals.

A comparison of Marco Verratti’s profile with Mikel Merino

It is no surprise that Mikel Arteta sets up his Arsenal side to dominate the ball and adopt a possession-based style of play. Consequently, the centre of the park becomes a highly important area. With the likes of Declan Rice and Jorginho already in the ranks, the Spanish coach is keen on additional personnel for the defensive midfield. Mikel Merino’s name has hence popped up due to his ability to cover large distances and make key runs into the box from midfield.

Marco Verratti excels in ball retention and is one of the calmest individuals on the ball in the world. His technical traits outshine those of Merino. The former PSG man is also capable of making darts into the penalty area which Mikel Arteta greatly appreciates and desires. Overall, Marco Verratti’s profile is a close match to Mikel Merino’s which might be the impetus required to advance the negotiations.