Player who has Newcastle United 'in his heart' completes medical and agrees four-year deal at Arsenal

Despite spending just one season at St James’ Park, the Euro 2024 winner is fondly remembered by Newcastle fans. Merino initially joined on loan from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2017 before United triggered the clause to make his move permanent three months later.

The Spaniard went on to make 25 appearances and scored a memorable late header as the Magpies beat Crystal Palace at James’ Park. There was excitement at what Merino could achieve on Tyneside, however it proved to be a flying visit after Real Sociedad activated his £10million release clause.

Six years later and Merino is set to return to the Premier League. As per Fabrizio Romano, the midfielder has completed his medical and agreed a four year contract, which includes an option of a further year, ahead of sealing a £33m transfer.

Romano posted on X: “Mikel Merino has completed his medical as new Arsenal player with clubs exchanging documents, deal being sealed. €32m fixed fee, €5m add-ons and contract until June 2028 plus option for further season.”

In an interview last year, Merino spoke well of his time at St James’ Park. He said: “Very good. What marked me the most in Newcastle was the stadium, the fans. I think it was a unique life, feeling what St James’ Park is, I will always have it in my heart and mind because it is something unique.

“Get a ball in your area and people go crazy shouting as if you were about to score a goal, and I said ‘let’s see, there are 80 metres to there and they are 11 ahead. It is impossible for us to score a goal’. But people believed it and encouraged you to move forward.”