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Aston Villa could now try and beat Arsenal to ‘world-class’ midfielder who Mikel Arteta loves
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery could now try and beat Mikel Arteta and Arsenal to the signing of a player who starred at Euro 2024.
Right now, both clubs are thought to be on the hunt for a new middle man, and Villa are now making progress in that regard with a deal for Amadou Onana nearing.
Onana was once linked with Arsenal, but having lost Douglas Luiz to Juventus, it seems as if Emery has decided that the Everton midfielder can be crucial to his side’s Champions League prospects.
There’s always been a feeling that 22-year-old Onana has more to give, a player with all of the attributes to become an elite talent, but perhaps one who still needs some refinement.
But just like they did when Juventus pursued Luiz from Villa, Arsenal have seemingly decided to take a step back, preferring to afford their energy elsewhere.
And after the conclusion of the Euros, Arsenal are now expected to step up their interest in Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino.
Aston Villa now interested in signing Arsenal target Mikel Merino after brilliant Euros
Arteta is very keen to sign Merino for Arsenal, a player who could fill the vacant spot left by Granit Xhaka almost a year ago.
However, according to reports in Italy, who were also sharing Juventus’ interest in the midfielder, Aston Villa are now among those chasing Merino.
READ MORE: Arsenal make ‘truly brilliant’ offer to sign Real Madrid star who is considering his future
reports that Villa are ‘keen’ on signing the 28-year-old, who could transpire as something of a bargain this summer.
According to reports, Merino now only has one-year left on his contract at Sociedad, who he joined after leaving both Newcastle United and then Borussia Dortmund.
Merino has recently suggested he’d be open to a new challenge, a player who would seemingly improve both Arsenal and Villa’s starting eleven.
And after watching Villa all but secure a move for Onana, it may not sit too well with Arsenal supporters if they then saw Emery’s side steal the march for a ‘world-class’ talent like Merino too, whilst they lay dormant.
That being said, perhaps Arsenal should actually be targeting a different Spanish midfielder who starred in the final of Euro 2024 against England.