Newcastle United midfielder Mikel Merino will make a decision on his future next week after he returns from his summer holiday in the USA, according to AS.
The Spanish newspaper report that Merino will decide ‘almost with complete certainty’ the next move in his career amid heavy interest from several La Liga clubs.
AS claim that Real Sociedad are in pole to sign the 22-year-old after president Jokin Aperribay took over their efforts to sign him in an operation worth between £10.5million and £13.1million.
It is said that Athletic Bilbao, Real Betis, Villareal and Sevilla are also in the hunt for Merino, who is determined to leave Newcastle in search of minutes at home in Spain.
Good move for Newcastle United?
No.
Losing Merino this summer would be a massive mistake from Newcastle, with the young Spaniard having the potential to go on and become a favourite at St. James’ Park.
His disappointing first season on Tyneside must be put behind him, not used as evidence to support an exit this summer, despite the quoted prices putting Newcastle in line for a big profit.
This is Futbol rating: 2/10
Likely to happen?
It does unfortunately look like Merino is now more likely to go than stay this summer.
Reports are gaining traction to suggest that the 22-year-old has grown massively frustrated on Tyneside, and is now eyeing up a move back to Spain.
While there is the chance that this is just speculation from the Spanish press, it would make sense that Merino is considering his future after such a disappointing season.
If he does leave, then Real Sociedad look to be in the best position to sign him, and Newcastle must try to squeeze out every penny they can for the promising central midfielder.
This is Futbol rating: 6/10