Earlier today, we carried a report from Mundo Deportivo who claimed Real Sociedad are in ‘very advanced’ negotiations with Newcastle United for Mikel Merino.
The 21-year-old is reportedly no longer required by Rafael Benitez at St James’ Park and the midfielder is attracting interest from several La Liga clubs. The report from Mundo Deportivo mentioned Athletic Club Bilbao have ended their interest in the player.
Apart from these two clubs, Real Betis were also interested in signing him. Sociedad were believed to be leading the race for Merino’s signature.
Asier Garitano’s side will pay €12m to Newcastle to secure Merino’s signature. It’s stated that only the ‘fringes’ of an agreement remain to be sealed, such as the ‘form of payment’ which likely means whether it will be in a lump sum or instalments.
The player wanted to have a relatively lower release clause and assurances over regular playing time at his new club.
The report claims that Merino has agreed a five-year deal and will have a €40m buyout clause. The Spaniard is currently in the United States and is set to accept Sociedad’s offer once he returns from his vacation. The deal is expected to be made official next week.
