Arsenal target Mikel Merino has been excluded from Real Sociedad's squad for their LaLiga opener tomorrow.
La Real welcome Rayo Vallecano on Sunday night but there is no sign of Merino, 28, in the squad list.
Arsenal had an initial offer of £21.5million rejected but it is believed an improved bid of £30m will be enough to seal the transfer.
Sporting director Edu has been in Spain to push negotiations along, with the Euro 2024-winning midfielder open to the move.
Sociedad manager Imanol Alguacil said: 'I’ve left Merino out of the squad as there are talks with other clubs… and this is the best solution now.