Friday 28 July 2017 12:29, UK
Mikel Merino is closing on a loan move to Newcastle from Borussia Dortmund after undergoing a medical in the north east, according to Sky sources.
Sky Sports News understands the Spain U21 midfielder could finalise his move later on Friday after agreeing a season-long loan with a view to a permanent move next summer.
Once finalised, Merino will become manager Rafa Benitez's fifth summer signing following the arrivals of Christian Atsu, Florian Lejeune, Jacob Murphy and Javier Manquillo at St James' Park.
"It's close, little things to do, but hopefully we can do it," Benitez said following his side's 4-0 pre-season win over Bradford on Wednesday.
"It would be another player of quality and that is something we maybe need a little bit more of in the squad."
The 21-year-old started his career at Spanish side Osasuna, making more than 50 appearances for the club, before moving to Dortmund last summer.
Merino, who featured for Spain at the U21 European Championship in Poland, managed to make only nine appearances in all competitions for the Bundesliga side last season.