Arsenal on Tuesday said the Premier League North London club signed Mikel Merino because the Spain international can improve manager Mikel Arteta’s side this season.
The Gunners signed the midfielder on a long-term contract from La Liga side Real Sociedad.
The 28-year-old has been a vital member of Real Sociedad’s team since joining the Basque side in 2018.
He will wear the number 23 shirt at the Emirates Stadium.
Explaining why Arsenal signed the player, the club’s Sporting Director Edu told Arsenal’s website: “We are so happy to have completed the transfer of Mikel Merino.
“Mikel was a key target for us this summer, and we identified him as a player who can fit perfectly into our squad and profile to improve us, as we aim to build on our strong performances of last season.”
