Real Betis are urging Mikel Merino to make a decision over his future so they can formally discuss his transfer with Newcastle United, say reports in Spain.
The 21-year-old joined the Magpies from Borussia Dortmund last summer but started only 14 matches in England’s top flight and his exit would be sanctioned.
Marca say Los Verdiblancos are the frontrunners for a move this summer despite interest from Basque duo Athletic Club Bilbao and Real Sociedad.
Earlier this week, ABC de Sevilla and Sevilla Info both reported that the player has met with Betis vice president Lorenzo Serra Ferrer and Coach Quique Setien, with the meetings said to be productive.
However, the Seville-based club need a definitive ‘yes’ from the player before they can talk formally with the Magpies, continues the report.
Merino left Osasuna in 2016 but made only two starts in the Bundesliga for Dortmund and now is said to want to return to La Liga.
Bahía Internacional represent the Pamplona native and are said to have met with Betis representatives last week to attempt to speed up a deal.
Image via @NUFC
