Mikel Merino is reported to be staying at Newcastle United this summer, despite much interest across Europe, according to SportWitness.
Merino signed for Newcastle on a season-long loan from Borussia Dortmund last summer but signed permanently for Rafa Benitez’s men in October.
However, after just a year in the famous black and white, there have been reports linking him with a move away from the North East, with interest from his native Spain, as well as Germany and Italy.
The Spaniard performed excellently for the Toon last season but was somewhat outshone by impressive displays from both Jonjo Shelvey and Mohamed Diame.
It has been reported that La Liga sides Real Betis and Real Sociedad are interested in the midfielder, but the strongest links back home are coming from Athletico Bilbao, who were also reportedly keen on signing him in January.
However, Merino is believed to feel settled with life in Newcastle and has no intentions of leaving the club.
