Arsenal's approach for Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino appears to be close, with Real Sociedad boss Imanol Aguacil delivering him an emotional farewell note.

Aguacil bid him farewell during his Friday news conference.

He said, "I told Mikel 'thank you very much'." As a real coach, I want this kind of farewell.

"He came at the age of 22, without making it, he has had six incredible years, with a brutal performance, a cup and five participations in Europe, he has left money, thirty-odd million, he feels Real and he has gone to Arsenal" .

The transaction is valued £32.5 million, including performance-related add-ons.

There is still work to be done on the Arsenal end. He needs to get a physical and sign off on personal terms.