Brief

Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino rejects Real Madrid move

The Spanish midfielder explained to Goles con Parrado why he stayed at Arsenal despite interest from the Spanish giants.

By Felo News Desk · Published Sat, 10 Oct 2026 03:14:20 GMT

Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino has turned down a reported £32 million transfer to Real Madrid, his father said.

What happened

Merino joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad in August 2024 on a deal that could rise to £31.6 million. He has since made 85 appearances and scored 16 goals, helping the Gunners win the Premier League and reach the Champions League final.

What the reports add

According to standard.co.uk, Merino’s father, Miguel, told Spanish outlet Goles con Parrado that the decision was not about money but about staying at a club competing for titles. He noted Arsenal’s recent Champions League semi‑final run and Premier League win as key factors.

What was said

“Well, look, it’s not just about Real Madrid,” Miguel Merino told Goles con Parrado. “He’s a player who’s at Arsenal and has won the Premier League, has reached the Champions League final… He’s part of a world‑class squad.”

How it came about

Merino had been linked with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu before Arsenal secured his signature. His father said the midfielder wanted a “step up in his ambitions” and preferred a club that could regularly compete in the Champions League, which Arsenal currently offers.

Key facts

Mikel Merino rejected a £32 million move to Real Madrid (standard.co.uk)
He joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad in August 2024 (standard.co.uk)
Merino has played 85 games and scored 16 goals for Arsenal (standard.co.uk)
His father explained the decision to stay was about competing for titles (standard.co.uk)