Barcelona have reportedly identified Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino as a potential target for next summer's transfer window. Initially, Barcelona were linked with Merino's team-mate Martin Zubimendi, but now they have dropped their interest in him. Barcelona are reportedly looking for a player of a different type with Zubimandi.
Merino has reportedly caught the attention of Barcelona, who are seriously considering offering the 27-year-old a contract. Although Merino has only 18 months left on his contract with Real Sociedad, Barcelona are believed to need to pay around €60 million (£51.7 million) to secure his services. Merino began his career at Osasuna before joining Borussia Dortmund, where he struggled to establish himself and made just nine appearances.
After a loan spell, Merino moved to Real Sociedad, where he made 216 appearances, contributing 21 goals and 28 assists. Barcelona are currently facing a midfield crisis, with young talent Gavy out injured and Oriol Romeu underperforming. While Pedri, Frenkie de Jong and Ilkay Gundogan could be up to the midfield role, Barcelona have yet to find a direct replacement for Sergio Busquets. Barcelona are expected to be active in the transfer market next summer, aiming to sign Joe Felix from Atletico Madrid and Joe Cancelo from Manchester City. However, due to financial issues, they may need to make an important **, with Ronald Araujo rumoured to be in a possible move to Bayern Munich and Manchester United.