The Gunners have already agreed personal terms with the Spaniard and talks are now ongoing with Sociedad over his transfer.

Their opening bid worth £25.6m was turned down, but they have made a renewed proposal in the region of £30m for him.

Arsenal are growingly optimistic that their latest offer will be accepted by Sociedad, who are aware Merino wants to leave.

Merino has already informed to the club's hierarchy that he wants to join the Gunners despite a better offer from Atletico Madrid.

Sociedad may have no choice but to sell him, considering his current deal with them expires at the end of the upcoming season.

Aside from Merino, the Gunners are eyeing another attacking player and prefer to add more competition on the right wing.

Nico Williams has been the club's main target for some time, but he seems likely to continue with Athletic Bilbao for another year.

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