Real Sociedad star Mikel Merino was today asked for the latest on his future with the club, amid mounting speculation pointing towards an incoming summer exit.
The subject of Merino’s plans for next season have of course long proven a headline talking point in San Sebastián.
As much comes with the midfield standout primed to enter the final 12 months of his contract later this year.
Though efforts have long been kicked into gear on the part of the Sociedad brass to find an agreement on an extension with Merino, to this point, little progress has been made in negotiations between the parties.
With the former Newcastle United man in some of the best form of his career – he has notched seven goals and five assists thus far this season – interest in his signature from across the continent is beginning to mount.
Speaking to the media whilst on international duty with Spain this week, it therefore came as little surprise when the subject of his contract situation was put to Merino himself.
And, in his response, the 27-year-old remained non-committal, albeit whilst keen to reiterate his happiness at Anoeta:
“The only thing I have in mind is to finish the season well,” Merino began, as cited by Mundo Deportivo. “That is what my representative and the president carry out. During all these years I have shown that my commitment is maximum and what I want to do during these months that remain until the end of the season is make sure Real is where it deserves, which is playing in Europe. To make history with the club, it would be five consecutive seasons qualifying, something that no one has achieved. It would be a pride to achieve it. In addition, life is very good in San Sebastián, very good. It is a spectacular city. People leave you very calm, you can sit on a terrace, walk around, it’s beautiful. And for those of us who like gastronomy it is one of the best places in the world to live.”
Conor Laird | GSFN
