Real Sociedad coach Asier Garitano says they're close to signing Newcastle United midfielder Mikel Merino.

The Magpies do not expect to see Merino back on Tyneside for pre-season training on Monday, and the deal could be completed soon.

“Until it becomes official, no, and I think it still has not been finalised," Garitano replied when asked if Sociedad had completed the signing of Merino on Radio Euskadi.

“He's someone I've know for many years, when we played against Osasuna with Leganes in the Segunda Division.

"It could be a good signing for us. He has been at important clubs like Borussia Dortmund and Newcastle - and, at the age of 21, he has a great future ahead of him. We hope it can be completed."