Mikel Merino, one of the standout players in Spain's Euro 2024 campaign, caught the eye of major clubs like Atlético Madrid, Barcelona, and Arsenal after coming on as a substitute.

Now looking to make the jump from Real Sociedad to a top-tier team, Merino has reportedly turned down the chance to be managed by Simeone. According to the Spanish newspaper Sport, Atlético's long-term project doesn't appeal to him.

This leaves his future with two options: staying in La Liga with FC Barcelona under Hansi Flick's management or moving to the Premier League with Mikel Arteta's Arsenal. Both clubs would need to shell out around $30 million to secure his services.