Signing a midfielder looked like a key target for Arsenal this summer, but Mikel Merino’s performance against Everton shows Mikel Arteta might not need to splash the cash.
Merino joined Arsenal in the summer of 2024 after winning the Euros with Spain and has been forced to play across a variety of positions due to injuries in the squad.
With Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz both injured, Merino has even stepped in as a makeshift striker and has bagged six Premier League goals this season.
However, his performance against Everton in their 1-1 draw on Saturday reminded the Gunners of how much he can add in the middle of the park.
Mikel Merino proves worth against Everton
While his goals have certainly been valuable due to Arsenal’s failure to sign a striker, the Spaniard was really brought to the Emirates for his physicality and tenacity in the midfield.
According to Opta’s data, he won more duels than any other player in the big five European leagues in the 2023/24 season.
That battling nature was on display in Arsenal’s last game at Goodison Park. Though Merino had fairly little to do with his side’s goal threat this time, taking only four touches in Everton’s box and creating just 0.15 xG, he was instrumental defensively.
According to FotMob, Merino won more tackles than any of his teammates, wasn’t dribbled past once, and won 15 duels. That wasn’t only the most of any player on the pitch, but the most of any Arsenal player in nine seasons.
Arsenal may not need to sign new midfielder this summer
A defensive midfielder has been a key item on Arsenal’s summer shopping list.
With Thomas Partey and Jorginho rumoured to be leaving, the Gunners have been linked to midfielders including Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi. Mail Sport reported in January that the Gunners are prepared to trigger Zubimendi’s £51m release clause this summer.
However, new sporting director Andrea Berta will have to bear in mind that the Gunners could have to splash out on a striker if they are to finally take the step from runners-up to Premier League champions.
Fans have criticised Arsenal’s problems scoring goals and a top-class striker will be a priority for supporters – but that won’t be cheap.
Berta’s arrival has accelerated talks to bring Sporting Lisbon star Viktor Gyokeres to London for around £62m. Alternatively, Mikel Arteta is a big fan of Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak.
Arsenal are in a fairly strong financial position, so bringing in a pricey striker wouldn’t necessarily rule out other incoming.
If any deal for the likes of Zubimendi were to fall through, though, Merino’s abilities in defensive midfield would certainly soften the blow.