ARSENAL has successfully acquired Mikel Merino for £32 million.

Real Sociedad’s 28-year-old midfielder has signed a four-year contract with a one-year option.

The Gunners will now try to recruit a new forward before the transfer window closes on Friday.

Merino, one of manager Mikel Arteta’s top summer targets, arrives after winning the Euros with Spain this summer and after weeks of negotiations with the Gunners.

“With his experience and versatility, Mikel is a player who will bring us huge quality,” Arteta stated. For several seasons now, he has been one of the best players in the league, both at the club and international levels.

“Mikel’s technical skill set, coupled with his upbeat and resilient disposition, will greatly strengthen our team.”

SunSport is aware of Merino, who can play as a defensive holder or a No. 8 in midfield, is seen by Arteta as a valuable boost to his options.

In addition to the £42 million acquisition of Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna, he strengthens Arsenal’s left flank, which was Arteta’s main goal.

Merino, who is 6 feet 2 inches tall, gives an already very tall team further height and power, as well as superiority at set pieces in both attack and defence.

With Merino’s confirmation, Arsenal will have spent more than £100 million this summer, having already paid £27 million for custodian David Raya and £42 million for defender Riccardo Calafiori.

He might make his debut this weekend in the last game before the international break for his new team.

The Gunners will be aiming to make it three victories out of three against Brighton, who also own a perfect record, at home in the Premier League.

Arteta, though, would prefer to add another forward before then.

Although there have been rumours of links to Nico Williams of Athletic Bilbao, a move for him seems unlikely given the financials of the agreement, particularly in terms of salary.

With Fulham having already paid £27 million in cash for Emile Smith Rowe this transfer window, Arsenal has a wide range of options to choose.

Additionally, the Gunners are expected to get an additional £30 million from Eddie Nketiah’s transfer.

The 25-year-old striker’s personal conditions have already been agreed upon, and he is about to sign with Crystal Palace.

Additionally, Fabio Vieira is scheduled to go on a season-long loan to Porto from North London.