Mikel Merino's departure from Newcastle United has stalled over contract terms.

The midfielder is in talks with Athletic Bilbao, Real Betis and Real Sociedad, which have all tabled five-year contract offers on similar terms.

However, AS says the deal has stalled due Merino's demands of a low buyout clause.

All three LaLiga clubs want to set the option at €60m or higher, while Merino wants it to be affordable in the event a bigger club comes in for him.

La Real president Jokin Aperribay is already in England today for talks with Newcastle about a deal for the midfielder.

Newcastle are willing to sell for €15m.