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<p style="display: none;">Article continues below</p><p style="display: none;">Article continues below</p><p style="display: none;">Article continues below</p><script type="application/json" data-placement="match-schedule">{"type":"match-schedule","data":{"channelId":"92686d1e-5985-40e1-80f3-6f5a54f55b39","competitionId":"34pl8szyvrbwcmfkuocjm3r6t"}}</script><script type="application/json" data-placement="fcplayer-semantic">{"type":"fcplayer-semantic","data":{"embedCode":"//cdn.fcp.codes/embed-code-template/embed-code-template.js#SEMANTIC_5704afb8-c10b-4ba5-9cb4-d7fb6098ef90"}}</script><ul><li>Barcelona set sights on Merino </li><li>Might need to spend €25 million plus variables </li><li>Merino open to move as he wants Champions League football </li></ul>

Barcelona consider deal to sign Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad as midfielder's contract runs down, with Catalan club limited by financial difficulties

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Jove Espanol

Real Sociedad

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Barcelona

<p>Real Sociedad are eager to secure Merino's future with a new contract, but the player is weighing his options. He has been contemplating his next move for months, yet he remains undecided. This period of uncertainty has naturally attracted interest from other clubs, with Barcelona leading the charge, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5548198/2024/06/11/arsenal-man-united-transfers-latest/?source=twitteruk&amp;utm_campaign=twitterfc&amp;utm_medium=social" target="_blank"><em>The Athletic.</em></a></p>

WHAT HAPPENED?

<p>If Merino opts against renewing his contract, a move could be on the horizon at a reduced transfer fee. The Blaugrana are confident they can secure the 27-year-old for approximately €25 million (£21m/$27) plus add-ons, despite ongoing concerns over their budget. </p>

THE BIGGER PICTURE

<p>A new offer is reportedly on the table from the Basque side, but Merino prefers to delay any decision-making until after the Euro 2024 tournament. The allure of Champions League football with Barcelona could be a significant factor in his final decision. Whereas, for Barcelona, Merino presents an attractive option due to his versatility. Capable of playing as a double pivot or in a more advanced interior role, he offers a tactical flexibility that could be invaluable. Additionally, he comes at a lower cost compared to other targets like Joshua Kimmich or Martin Zubimendi. </p>

DID YOU KNOW?

<p>Financial constraints have plagued the Catalan giants in recent seasons, complicating their ability to compete for top talent in the transfer market. However, securing Merino at a reasonable fee could be seen as a shrewd move, potentially strengthening their squad without breaking the bank. However, they have yet to make a formal offer, leaving Merino’s future open. </p>

WHAT NEXT?

Barcelona consider deal to sign Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad as midfielder's contract runs down, with Catalan club limited by financial difficulties | Goal.com

Barcelona are reportedly considering signing Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad as the midfielder enters the final year of his contract.

Barcelona consider deal to sign Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad as midfielder&apos;s contract runs down, with Catalan club limited by financial difficulties