Newcastle United will green light the exit of midfield maestro Mikel Merino for a fee of (£13million €15million) and Athletic Bilbao are keen on snapping him up, according to Fiebre Rojiblanca.
The Spanish publication report that the Magpies will be willing to let the 21-year-old, who stands at 6’1″ (source: Transfermarkt), leave this summer if their asking price is met, and that it has led to much interest from La Liga sides keen on giving him the opportunity to return home.
It is stated that Athletic Bilbao are eyeing up a move for the Newcastle man, but also have Manchester United’s Ander Herrera in their sights, while Real Betis are also said to be a potential suitor for Merino.
Good move for Newcastle?
It certainly seems strange that Newcastle would cash in on his sale after just 12 months at St James’ Park and it will have many wondering if there are perhaps behind the scenes issues.
The youngster started his career on Tyneside brightly but injuries seemed to impact his performances significantly and he has not looked the same player since.
With a long term contract and bags of potential, the £13million seems much less than the Magpies should be demanding for his signing, especially when the sale of players will help boost Newcastle’s transfer kitty.
If Merino does not want to be at Newcastle, or if a huge bid comes their way, then a return home may be on the cards but otherwise the Magpies need to keep faith.
This is Futbol rating: 3/10
Likely to happen?
Who knows?
There has been a lot of talk over Merino’s future – more than mere hearsay – and the rumours could well be based on some sort of fact.
It really does depend on what is going on behind the scenes, but for the reported £13million it seems unlikely.
He is worth much, much more to Newcastle and there would likely have to be a bigger fee coming their way for them to part ways.
This is Futbol rating: 4/10