Alonso pens new Real deal

Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Alonso has penned a new deal at the club while also clinching a loan move to Segunda table-toppers Numancia until the end of the season.

The midfielder, whose younger brother Xabi also plays for Basque outfit, is now tied to the Estadio Anoeta until 2006.

The 23-year-old, who has been a bit-part player for Sociedad this term, expressed his delight at securing his immediate future, and also the chance to get regular first-team action at Numancia.

"I am very happy with the new contract that I have signed at Real Sociedad," he stated.

"It demonstrates that they believe in me, and have high hopes of my development.

"However, what I need right now is minutes (playing) and the best way of doing that is through a loan.

"I have reached agreement with Numancia, and I am happy."

Alonso underlined, however, that there was no chance of a permanent deal with the Soria-based outfit.

"My journey to Soria will be a return. That is what I want, to return to Real (Sociedad) on June 30."