Real Sociedad star Mikel Merino reacts to Alexander Isak’s imminent Newcastle United transfer

Mikel Merino admits the prospect of losing Alexander Isak to Newcastle United is bad news for Real Sociedad.

The former Magpies midfielder, who spent the 2017-18 season at St James’ Park, was speaking live on Radio MARCA Donostia when news broke of Isak’s imminent switch to Tyneside.

Merino was informed that United had reportedly agreed a £58million club-record deal for the Sweden international - news that clearly came as a surprise.

The 26-year-old denied any knowledge in regards to the Isak reports but admitted losing him would be “bad” for the La Liga side.

Merino and Isak have been teammates at Sociedad for the last three years.

As translated from Spanish, Merino was quoted as saying: “I can't tell you either because I can't. I mean, I'm not sure if that's true or not.

“Now, when I talk to him, I'll keep him informed. But hey, in any case, it's bad for us, he's a very important player.”

United are attempting to finalise a deal for Isak at the early possible stage with sporting director Dan Ashworth and chief scout Steve Nickson currently in Spain, as reported by Sky Sports.

The 22-year-old will become Newcastle’s fourth summer signing after Matt Targett, Nick Pope and Sven Botman.