Real Sociedad president admits talks with Arsenal for Spain midfielder Merino

MADRID, Aug. 20 (Xinhua) -- Real Sociedad President Jokin Aperribay has confirmed that the club are still negotiating the future of Spain international midfielder Mikel Merino with Arsenal.

The 28-year-old was left out of the team for Real Sociedad's 2-1 opening day defeat at home to Rayo Vallecano and when asked about his absence, Aperribay admitted the club had taken the decision "that Mikel wouldn't be in the