Real Sociedad close to signing Newcastle United midfielder Mikel Merino?

Real Sociedad have reportedly moved to the brink of signing Newcastle United midfielder Mikel Merino.

Last summer, Newcastle signed Merino on loan from Borussia Dortmund before the switch was quickly turned into a permanent transfer with the Spaniard penning a long-term deal.

However, it emerged that Merino was keen on a return to his homeland and according to Sky Sports News, Real Sociedad are prepared to meet the player's release clause of £10m.

The report claims that a deal could be completed by the weekend, and Merino will leave St James' Park having made just 25 appearances for the Magpies.

A replacement has already been brought in by Rafael Benitez, with Ki Sung-yueng arriving on a free transfer from Swansea City.