Basque country

Sobha Realty Training Centre: Arsenal have signed Spain’s international Mikel Merino from La Liga side Real Sociedad on a long-term deal. The 28-year-old midfielder, who has been a key figure for Sociedad since 2018, joins the Gunners after a successful spell in Spain where he made 242 appearances, scoring 27 goals and providing 30 assists.

Born in Pamplona, Merino began his career at Osasuna, progressing through their youth ranks before making 67 appearances for the first team. His performances earned him a move to Borussia Dortmund in 2016, where he helped the German side win the DFB-Pokal in his debut season.

Merino’s talent soon caught the eye of Premier League clubs, leading to a season-long loan at Newcastle United in 2017. After a promising start, the move was made permanent, and Merino featured 24 times in the Premier League.