CHERRIES are in talks with Real Sociedad regarding the potential sale of Diego Rico, the Daily Echo understands.

The 28-year-old arrived from Leganes for a fee of £10.7million in the summer of 2018.

But, after three seasons in England, the Spaniard could be set for a return to La Liga.

Rico has played under three different managers at Cherries, signed by Eddie Howe before going on to feature with Jason Tindall and Jonathan Woodgate at the helm during the last campaign.

The Burgos-born star travelled with the rest of the squad for a training camp in Marbella with new boss Scott Parker earlier this month, but did not feature during either of the club's two friendlies, against Real Balompedica Linense or Granada. He was understood to be nursing a slight injury during the team's time in Spain.

Since arriving at Cherries, Rico has made 83 appearances, most recently the play-off semi-final second-leg loss at Brentford in May.

His only goal for the club came via a free-kick in a 4-0 win at Barnsley in December 2020.

Sociedad, who have been linked with a move for Rico in the past, are said to be keen to sign a full-back to provide competition for former Arsenal man Nacho Monreal.