OPINION
Newcastle completed the loan signing of midfielder Mikel Merino this summer, but it’s unclear just where he will slot into their starting line-up.
The Magpies signed the 21-year-old on a season-long loan from Borussia Dortmund and he will be hoping to experience regular first-team action following his move to St James’ Park.
He is the fifth player signed by Rafael Benitez in the transfer market and is expected to push for a place in the starting line-up.
Merino spent last season in and around the Dortmund senior squad, but managed just nine senior appearances across all competitions.
He is recognised as a defensive midfielder and is known to be brilliant in possession, something that should make him popular with Newcastle fans.
The Spain Under-21 international is fresh off the back of helping his nation finish as runners up in the European Championships this summer.
This Is Futbol has looked at three ways Newcastle could deploy Merino in their starting line-up, including a formation which should get the best out of him.