Over the past few days, the name of Mikel Merino has been linked very strongly with FC Barcelona. Reports have suggested that the Real Sociedad has now emerged as the top target to reinforce the Barça midfield in the summer.
In fact, it has even been suggested that the Blaugrana have already prepared a formula to sign him once the FFP situation eases up, with an offer of €25 million plus €5 million in variables being drawn up.
Not a priority
However, now, according to Mundo Deportivo, while Barcelona hold an interest in Mikel Merino, the 27-year-old Real Sociedad star is not seen as a priority target by the club.
The Spanish international is a midfielder that Deco is keeping an eye on, as was the previous sporting management.
Barça have monitored the midfielder this season, although there have been no further moves and no steps have been taken.
Not a priority. (Photo by ANDER GILLENEA/AFP via Getty Images)
Merino’s name is not at the top of Deco’s list of preferences for the pivot, but rather as an interior midfielder, which is the position where he believes he could fit in more. However, at the moment there are many players in this position.
For now, Merino remains an option, but is not seen as a priority. As such, no one from Barça has contacted his agents or Real Sociedad to explore the possibility of a transfer.
In fact, the midfielder, who is in training with the Spanish national team, is negotiating the renewal of his contract, which expires in 2025 and has a €60 million release clause.
It remains to be whether Barcelona do press ahead with their pursuit of Merino or decide to go after other targets, with names like Joshua Kimmich and Amadou Onana also on the agenda.
Source link : https://barcauniversal.com/barcelona-do-not-see-la-liga-midfielder-as-a-priority-target-contrary-to-reports/
Author : Michel Durant
Publish date : 2024-06-07 09:30:49
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