Manchester United consider move for Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino

Manchester United have multiple positions to evaluate going into the summer transfer window and the Red Devils have already been subject to links with central-defenders and strikers but many supporters think that the club should be eyeing a new midfielder.

Having a lack of potential and congruency in the midfield has hurt United multiple times during the season with 18-year-old Kobbie Mainoo making himself a regular at the heart of the park. He is playing with Casemiro lately, though the Brazilian has been ordinary contrary to the standards he has set for himself.

Looking for opportunities in the market, Erik ten Hag & Co. have been linked with a move for Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino. There has been ample of uncertainty surrounding Merino’s future at Reale Arena as the negotiations between the player and the club for a new contract has reached a stalemate.

According to report by Deportes COPE Gipuzkoa, the 27-year-old’s representatives won’t pen down any contract till the club’s fate in European competition for next campaign is sealed.

With his contract with Sociedad running out in 2025, Mikel Merino has been linked with a move to Manchester City, Juventus, Atlético de Madrid and Manchester United. The Spanish international has a €60million (around £51m) release clause in his contract, however, his services can be brought for much less if the contract stalemate continues with the Basque club.

Mikel Merino rose through the ranks at Osasuna before moving to Germany to ply his trade for Borussia Dortmund and a spell in England at Newcastle United. He found his feet back in Spain with Real Sociedad, who bought him for £11m.

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With Sofyan Amrabat’s loan option not to be taken owing to his performances and Casemiro linked with a move away, Erik ten Hag will look for a marquee midfielder and Mikel Merino could just be that guy.