UEFA Champions League
Mikel Merino, a 30-year-old midfielder from Arsenal, emerges as an alternative for the upcoming Real Madrid transfer windows to reinforce their midfield. Currently, there is no known negotiation, but his limited playing time in London, versatility, and performance with Spain align with several needs of José Mourinho's team.
The Spanish international is under contract with Arsenal until June 30, 2028 and has a value of 25 million euros, according to Transfermarkt. Any potential operation would have to be negotiated directly with the English club, which paid around 32 million euros plus variables for him in 2024.
🚀 YES, HE'S DONE IT AGAIN. 𝗠𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗭𝗢 in the 88th minute to put Spain 𝘤𝘰𝘯 𝘱𝘪𝘦 𝘺 𝘮𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘰 in the quarterfinals of the #NationsLeague 📺 Watch the #NationsRTVE match LIVE on @La1_tve and @rtveplay https://t.co/cykway3ky5 https://t.co/QgxngiL3u5
— Teledeporte (@teledeporte) October 6, 2026
Mikel Merino Shows His Ability Again with Spain
Mikel Merino's recent performance has brought him back into the spotlight. He came on in the second half against Croatia, with Spain trailing 1-0, and scored two goals for the comeback to secure a 1-2 victory, ensuring qualification for the Nations League quarterfinals.
His stats with the national team strengthen a trait he has developed in recent years. Merino has scored 13 goals in his last 24 international matches and has reached 15 goals with Spain, despite usually playing as a midfielder and not always being a regular starter.
The contrast with his situation in London is significant. In the first five matches of the 2026/27 Premier League, he played in all five games, but always coming off the bench and accumulating just 81 minutes. His only goal for Arsenal this season came in the League Cup. Mikel Merino was already linked to Real Madrid during the last summer's World Cup.
Real Madrid Would Find Several Solutions in One Player
His potential fit at Real Madrid stems mainly from his lack of continuity. Mourinho would add a player accustomed to playing as an interior or central midfielder, with the ability to compete physically and get into the box from deeper positions.
Merino also offers alternatives in other positions. Mikel Arteta has even used him as a center forward at Arsenal when injuries have limited attacking options, leveraging his 1.88 meters, aerial prowess, and ability to arrive from inside positions.
His career includes experiences in more defensive roles as well. During his time at Borussia Dortmund, he even played as a center back under Thomas Tuchel, although his primary position throughout most of his career has been in midfield.

Arsenal Holds the Final Say on Mikel Merino
The financial aspect would influence any potential move. His market value stands at 25 million euros, but the contract until 2028 allows Arsenal to negotiate from a position of strength. An amount around 30-40 million would be a market estimate, not a publicly set price by the London club.
Currently, there is no indication of talks between the parties. Nonetheless, if his involvement continues to be limited in the coming months, the scenario could change for future transfer windows. Mikel Merino blends experience, versatility, and an increasing goal-scoring output with Spain, three reasons for Real Madrid to assess his situation before the next market window.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El Real Madrid debe fichar a Mikel Merino
