Mikel Merino is training away from the Real Sociedad squad as he closes in on a move to Arsenal.
The Gunners and Sociedad have been locked in talks this week over a deal for Merino, with the Spanish club holding out for a fee of around £34million.
Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay is said to have flown to London for negotiations and there is optimism that an agreement can be reached.
Merino, who was in the Spain squad that won Euro 2024, wants to join Arsenal and was left out of the Sociedad squad for their opening game of the La Liga season on Sunday.
The 28-year-old trained normally in the build-up to that game and wanted to play, but he is now working separately from the main group.
Merino trained on Wednesday with forward Carlos Fernandez, who is also hoping to leave Sociedad this month, and players who are working back to fitness after injuries.
Arsenal want to sign Merino to bolster their options in midfield, with the 28-year-old expected to play as a No8.
He shone for Spain at Euro 2024 and featured in all seven of their matches as they went all the way in Germany, beating England in the final.
Arsenal’s interest in Merino dates back to before his fine form this summer and he would add physicality to their midfield.
Merino also has experience of playing alongside Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard from when the Norwegian spent the 2020-21 season on loan at Real Sociedad from Real Madrid.
