Real Sociedad are closing on a deal for Newcastle United midfielder Mikel Merino.

AS says La Real president Jokin Aperribay has been in England to settle terms on a fee with Newcastle for the Spaniard. A deal worth €12m has now been agreed.

The two clubs are now negotiating method of payment, with Merino making it clear he's happy to move to San Sebastian. Terms will be rubberstamped when he returns from summer holidays.

Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez, while happy with Merino, does need to cash in to help fund his own signings plans this summer.

Merino is due back on Tyneside Monday from his US break.